The advisory group will explore whether the use of video recorded evidence is in the best interests of the child abuse victims and reduces their exposure to the stress and suffering of the criminal process. Opponents of the use of video recorded testimony point out that defense counsel could use a child's videotaped early statements about alleged abuse to discredit the child witness in court. Further questions were raised about the legitimacy of editing taped interviews in the interest of coherence and comprehensiveness. Recognizing that the British legal system will not do away with the cross examination of child witnesses in contested criminal cases, the Home Office therefore seeks to review thoroughly any changes in the ways child witnesses testify so that they reflect respect for the situation of the child witness and the accused. The advisory group appointed to study the question will also consider whether it may be practical and humane to tape record the evidence of other victims and witnesses of violent crime.