We were concerned to read of the Law Society's criminal law committee's perception of the Witness Service (see [2006] Gazette, 18 May, 8).

We do not share the committee's assertion that 'on occasions the Witness Service does not fully appreciate that they are available to provide assistance and support to defence witnesses as well as prosecution witnesses'.


Since the Witness Service's inception in 1995, our service has been available to all witnesses in criminal trials. Today the Witness Service covers every criminal court and we are as committed as ever to supporting defence witnesses. This work is a fundamental aspect of our day-to-day service and it is crucial that as many witnesses who need our services are able to access them.


Improving the experience of defence witnesses at court depends on an effective coalition comprising government, defence practitioners, the Court Service and the Witness Service. We are working with these partners on the government's witness charter to help ensure that defence witnesses' rights are properly applied.


The Witness Service is working hard in local courts and nationally to build good relationships with all in criminal justice to ensure that the best possible support is available to defence witnesses.


Improving their experience is possible, but will only be achieved by a concerted effort on the behalf of the government and of the professionals in all agencies on whom defence witnesses rely.


Ben Smith, policy department, Victim Support, London