On behalf of Professional Interpreters for Justice (PI4J), I am writing to express our appreciation for the Committee’s recent report “Lost in translation? Interpreting services in the courts.” We welcome this comprehensive examination which substantiates many of the concerns PI4J organisations have consistently raised, regarding the court interpreting system in the United Kingdom.

This paper sets out urgent recommendations for tackling immediate challenges around procurement and provision of language services for the UK’s public sector.

Professional Interpreters for Justice advocates for the use of qualified interpreters and translators to ensure equitable access to justice and public services in the UK. The “Working Together” White Paper outlines ten recommendations to improve language service quality, support fair pay, and address current challenges.

An independent review of qualifications and standards for assignments covered by the Ministry of Justice language contracts was announced by Lord Wolfson. PI4J have corresponded with Lord Wolfson concerning the review.