How does the taking of statements over the telephone work?
A. The taking of statements by telephone may be useful particularly if the evidence is not expected to be challenged; for example, to record the formal theft of or damage to property and where the person is a substantial distance from the officer in the case. The procedure to obtain a statement by telephone onto a form MG11 could take place as follows. The statement taker starts by explaining the purpose of the call, ascertains whether the person is willing to provide a statement and for it to be recorded by telephone. It would not be appropriate for a statement to be taken in this way for anyone who is under 18 or disability which gives any concern about not seeing the witness face to face. The statement taker should state that a record will be made in statement form of what is being said and that at the conclusion the statement will be read back to the maker who will have an opportunity to make any alteration or addition required. The Criminal Justice Act 1967 declaration at the head
