Judicial Exchange between the UK and Japan
In January 2021, members of the UK judiciary took part in a virtual exchange with the Supreme Court of Japan, led by Chief Justice Otani. This was the first international judicial exchange of its kind between the UK and Japan, and the first virtual event held by the Supreme Court of Japan since the COVID-19 pandemic started.
Lord Reed and Lord Hodge were joined by the Chief Justice of England and Wales Lord Burnett and Lord Justice Flaux in a discussion in the topics 'Overview of how justice systems have responded to COVID-19', 'The use of technology', and 'Public participation during COVID-19 (video hearings and jury trials)'. The meeting was moderated by Lord Hodge.
The meeting began with speeches by Lord Reed and Chief Justice Otani, with members of the Japanese media present highlighting the value that the Japanese placed on this engagement.
In the days that followed the meeting letters of thanks were exchanged between Lord Reed and Chief Justice Otani. Both expressed a desire to continue this relationship.
