POLICE chiefs have backed calls for a review of the British court system, claiming hearings have become little more than a game.

The Association of Chief Police Officers, who set the code of conduct for police divisions across country, are calling on the Government to make changes to give better protection to witnesses and victims.

But the association has come under fire from people in the law profession despite gaining huge support with members of the Superintendents' Association and the Police Federation who believe reforms should include better handling of cases to allow speedier trails, and a review to set out clear guidelines for all lawyers to follow.

Other proposals include procedures for lawyers to see a case from start to finish and a re-think in the design of court buildings. Currently, the association argues, many victims and witnesses wait around outside court before and after a case just yards away from the defendant.

They say the new ideas put forward would see safe separate waiting areas introduced for all concerned.

A better use of technology to allow evidence to be given from a distance, away from the open court, is also being proposed because, they association claims, "victims and witnesses very often feel and are intimidated."

David Brindle, Lancashire Constabulary's Director of Corporate Services, said: "There is no doubt that new measures are long overdue.

"The system relies on public confidence, yet evidence suggests that the willingness of victims of crime and witnesses to help the police and give evidence in court is at an all time low.

"At the moment, the process ignores the needs of victims and witnesses and we will need tough reforms to put all this right."

Respected Preston solicitor John O'Donnell agrees with some of the points made in the plans but has his reservations on the motives of the police in drawing them up. He said: "No-one would disagree that courts should be a less intimidating place for victims and technology should be used to reduce administration.

"However the police have their own agenda when they put forward changes to the administration of justice in that they are seeking a better conviction rate."