Provision to be made for deaf jurors in England & Wales

Deaf people will be enabled to serve on juries in England & Wales under new proposals announced by the UK Government.

The Police, Crimes, Sentencing and Courts Bill introduced to the Westminster Parliament includes provision to allow BSL (British Sign Language) interpreters to be present in a jury deliberation room.

Current laws strictly prohibit anyone other than sworn jurors from entering jury deliberation rooms, to safeguard against outside influence. Ministers however wish to make the justice system accessible to everyone and are therefore proposing to remove this barrier.

BSL interpreters can already enter courtrooms to assist deaf jurors. Interpreters will be contractually bound to a confidentiality agreement, stipulating their obligation to remain impartial at all times and not to divulge any discussions that take place in jury rooms.

The move will mean over 80,000 deaf people across England & Wales will be able to participate in jury service. 

Provision already exists for jurors with other disabilities, including to ensure wheelchairs can be properly positioned to view proceedings, and allowing the use of guide dogs and braille cards.

Lord Chancellor Robert Buckland QC MP said: "Disability should not be a barrier to people carrying out this most important civic duty."