Conflict or convergence?:Interpreters’ and police interviewers’ perceptions of the public service interpreter’s role in England and Wales

Abstract

This paper presents the findings of a research project investigating perceptions of public service interpreting among police officers and practising interpreters in the legal system of England and Wales. The data were secured from both groups responding to six instances of interpreting practice where the interpreter involved had to make an ethics-related choice. The results suggest that despite the markedly different professional cultures there are in fact few points of actual professional conflict, with the police officers showing an understanding of the interpreters’ agenda. It is argued this is because both groups ultimately pursue the same aim, namely effective communication.