Cable & Wireless has won a multi-million pound conract to provide video conferencing facilities for the Government's new virtual courts scheme.
The Criminal Justice System's scheme, launched back in May by Justice Secretary Jack Straw, seeks to speed up the justice process by cutting travel time as well as cutting costs and the chances of defendants absconding. It also provides support for more vulnerable witnesses unable to take the stand.
Jim Marsh, chief executive of Cable & Wireless, said in a statement: "The Managed Video Conferencing solution we're providing will radically change the way evidence is given."
Managed Video Conferencing will be used to enable Virtual Courts where the first hearing of a defendant can be performed via video link from the police station to the court as well as allowing prisoners to give evidence from prison and letting probation officers speak to those on probation without travelling.
The scheme is being trialled at 15 police stations in London, all linked to Camberwell Magistrates Court. It is not being used for full trials but if a defendant pleads guilty, it can be used for sentencing. Another pilot of the scheme will take place later this year in Kent.
