Dr. Angela Skuce:

As things stand, people do not have access to that. The Istanbul Protocol is basically a UN document or manual for the appropriate investigation and documentation of torture and other cruel or inhuman treatment. The Bill just mentions an examination by a registered medical practitioner. It does not say what that examination constitutes and it does not give any qualifications other than a registered medical practitioner. To carry out an Istanbul Protocol-compliant examination, one has to have special training, and it takes a lot of resources. At the moment, there is probably a one-year waiting list. We have met many people who, because of psychological trauma, are not able to give a clear account of what has happened to them. It is beyond the capabilities of the vast majority of doctors to say whether a scar is consistent with what they have said or with something else. There needs to be a recognition of the need for hugely increased resources and appropriately trained people. People should be entitled to an appropriate and timely medical examination before their application is heard.