On Tuesday 18th December the House of Lords Science and Technology
Select Committee will question senior judges about the use of
Forensic Science in courts in England and Wales and its
contribution to the delivery of justice.
The Committee will ask the witnesses how
judges can ensure that the analysis and interpretation of
forensic evidence presented in court has a firm scientific basis.
The Committee will also ask whether there are effective channels
for the communication of advice on science and technology to the
judiciary.
The Session will begin at 4:25pm
in Committee Room 4A of the House of Lords. Giving evidence will
be:
-
of
Ombersley, former
Justice of the Supreme Court
-
His Honour Judge Wall
QC, Circuit
Judge
-
Sir Brian
Leveson, President
of the Queen's Bench Division and Head of Criminal
Justice
Questions the Committee are
likely to ask include:
-
What is the level of understanding of
forensic science within the Criminal Justice System amongst
lawyers, judges and juries?
-
When a case that relies on forensic evidence
comes before you how do you ensure that any expert witness is
sufficient qualified to speak about the
subject?
-
Is enough being done to prepare for the
increasing role that digital forensics will have in the
Criminal Justice System in the future?
-
Is there a source of responsive and ongoing
independent, balanced and accessible analysis of science and
technology in relation to legal issues available to the
judiciary?
