I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s question, and we will certainly take on board what he says.

I thank my hon. Friend for that very important question.

The hon.

Prior to the covid-19 outbreak, CPS lawyers had participated in only a handful of audio and video hearings.

I do not agree with the premise of the hon. and learned Lady’s question.

Vulnerable witnesses are entitled to a range of special measures already, which are being utilised and are still in operation during this

My hon. Friend is right to ask about the backlog and I am concerned about it. It is inevitable that there will be a backlog.

Sometimes alternative mechanisms are in place.

The hon.

We are supporting the legal aid system, as we always have done.