The introduction of summary justice reforms have, it is claimed, taken "tens of thousands" of victims and witnesses out of the court process.

A Scottish Government statement says that the use of police fixed penalty notices, enhanced fiscal direct measures and, where cases are prosecuted in court, an increase in early pleas "have all contributed to the more efficient operation of the courts."

Justice Minister Kenny MacAskill claimed that the controversial reforms, which allow police to execute punishment son the street beofre the defender has access to legal advice, welcomed what he called the "early success" of the reforms.

"It is testament to the professionalism of police, prosecutors, court staff and members of the legal profession who have so effectively embraced the opportunity to improve our system of justice," he said.

"While the full benefits are yet to be secured, I'm delighted that the reforms have already spared thousands of victims and witnesses from often distressful court appearances, enabled more of our police to be on the street not filling in paperwork or waiting to give evidence and started to turn around the culture of late, last-minute guilty pleas. The reformed system of summary justice remains fair to the accused and their agents, but is now geared to the interests of victims and witnesses, not run for the convenience of offenders."