Writing on X, the Scottish Solicitors Bar Association said that the committed had chose “not to invite” the body to give evidence on parts 5 and 6 of the Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill.

It added: “Refusing to listen to legitimate and justified criticisms of this undemocratic and dangerous reform does not negate those criticisms.

“It just means our national parliament is being reduced to an echo chamber.

“In many cases it appears that the politicians – who are nominally meant to be scrutinising the legislation – are more enthusiastic proponents of the pilot than the thoughtful, considered and articulate witnesses appearing before [the committee]”.

A spokesman for Holyrood said: “The committee is hearing from a range of witnesses representing the legal profession including the Law Society, the Scottish Criminal Bar Association, and a leading KC. The SSBA was invited to provide a written submission.”