Written Question · S1W-03751 · Session 1
What it believes the impact of increasing the use of modern technology, such as video, audio tape or digital media, in recording proceeding…
The question
To ask the Scottish Executive what it believes the impact of increasing the use of modern technology, such as video, audio tape or digital media, in recording proceedings in Scottish Courts would be on the accuracy of the reports.
The answer
A programme to introduce audio tapes for recording proceedings in the Supreme and the Sheriff Courts was completed in 1997. A comprehensive review of these arrangements was completed in July 1999 which made a number of recommendations to improve overall performance, all of which have been implemented. In addition, digital recorders were issued in February 1999 to all Judges in the High Court as back-up for recording their charges to the jury.No complaints have been received from either the judiciary or other court users on the accuracy of transcriptions over the past year and there are no plans to change the current arrangements. Nevertheless, the Scottish Court Service continues to monitor the development of technology in this area.Video is not routinely used for recording proceedings in the courts.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S1W-03751 by reference.