COVID-19 (Coronavirus) – Update 6 May 2020 – Taking evidence remotely

In the last update on 17 April 2020, we indicated that the Inquiry would be adjusting its working arrangements so that witness evidence could continue to be taken remotely during the Government-imposed COVID-19 lockdown. We are pleased to report that, since that update, the Inquiry has successfully completed a number of meetings with witnesses to gather their evidence, both over the telephone and using video conferencing facilities.  These meetings have been conducted using secure technology, with witnesses speaking to the Inquiry team from their own homes.  As a result of the successful meetings undertaken to date, the Inquiry is now encouraging further witnesses to come forward and consider giving their evidence in this way.  Anybody interested in discussing a remote meeting should first contact the Inquiry on 0800 389 4322 or via email at mail@iitcse.com.  The team will discuss the options, and then steps will be taken to arrange a remote meeting as appropriate.

The Inquiry understands, however, that some people may not feel comfortable speaking over the telephone or via video conference, and in such cases arrangements will still be made with those individuals to set up a face to face meeting once the lockdown restrictions are lifted and the Inquiry is in a position to meet with witnesses in person.  Therefore, the Inquiry continues to encourage those witnesses to come forward at this time.