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

Sometimes alternative mechanisms are in place.

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.

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

The CPS will and needs to engage in evaluation exercises on this subject with partners as part of its future working programme to assess

The hon.

I thank the hon. Gentleman for that question. I am pleased to say that the CPS is not bereft of resources.

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.