Liberal Democrat Shadow Justice Secretary Margaret Smith MSP has urged MSPs from all parties to support the general principles of a Bill that guarantees the independence of the judiciary.

Speaking during a debate in the Scottish Parliament, Mrs Smith will call for specialist training for judges to improve the judicial experience for victims of crime and witnesses.

Commenting ahead of the debate, Mrs Smith said:

“It’s essential that people have confidence in the justice system. This Bill will guarantee judicial independence, enshrining the principle in Scots law that judges must be free from undue influence.

“I welcome the general principles of this Bill, much of which is the result of action taken by the previous Executive. There is, however, room for improvement.

“At present, victim support agencies are concerned that judges do not receive mandatory specialist training before working with vulnerable witnesses and victims of crime. Attending court can be a frightening experience and Liberal Democrats are sympathetic to the view that mandatory formal training for judges should be introduced particularly in respect of vulnerable witnesses. This would ensure that judges are trained to support vulnerable individuals who appear before them.”