CAMBRIDGESHIRE police officers will be able to give evidence in court from their station this year via video-link.

The region is one of 13 areas across England and Wales to launch the new video technology scheme which seeks to reduce prisoner movements and save police hours.

Justice and Policing Minister Damian Green said: “We want the justice system to respond more effectively to the needs of victims, witnesses and professionals.

“Video technology is vital in this and I am extremely pleased that Cambridgeshire will be rolling out this technology during 2013.

“This is one part of our drive to create a swifter and more efficient justice system for all.”

In 2012 an estimated 75,000 video appearances took place nationwide during criminal cases which dealt with offences including burglary, theft, assault and first hearings for more serious offences such as murder.

In addition, police forces are expanding the use of video-link to support witnesses including vulnerable and intimidated witnesses who may have concerns about attending the same court as the defendant.