1.1 The Programme for Government makes clear that the Scottish Executive is committed to being tough on crime and on criminals. We need an effective criminal justice system to convict the guilty and protect victims and the community. A vital role is played by victims and witnesses coming forward to provide the evidence needed for cases to come to court. It is essential to the functioning of the criminal justice system that witnesses can give their evidence without fear of intimidation and with the support necessary for any special needs they may have.
1.2 In November 1998 the Scottish Office issued a consultation paper on vulnerable and intimidated witnesses in Scottish criminal and civil cases called Towards A Just Conclusion. The document described the help currently given to child, mentally disordered and intimidated witnesses and made a number of recommendations about how this could be improved.
1.3 Towards A Just Conclusion was produced by a Working Group made up of representatives from: The Scottish Office, Crown Office, Scottish Courts Administration, Scottish Court Service, Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland, and Victim Support Scotland. Similar work was carried out in England and Wales by an Inter-Departmental Working Group set up by the Home Secretary. Their consultative document "Speaking Up for Justice" was published by the Home Office in June 1998, followed by an Action Plan, "Action for Justice" which led to the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999.
1.4 This Action Plan presents the results of the Scottish consultation, provides information about the progress which has been made to date, and sets out a timetable for the achievement of the remaining recommendations.