Witnesses to major crimes could be given new identities and sent to live on other islands, under legislation tabled in the House of Assembly.

The Justice Protection Act aims to protect vulnerable witnesses and make them less afraid of giving evidence in homicide, firearms, drugs and other serious trials.

In extreme cases, documents would be created so witnesses, and if necessary their family, can have new names; they would then be relocated and given help settling down into their new community.

However, Attorney General Kim Wilson last night said the authorities would only pursue this option in very rare circumstances; more often witnesses would be sent away before the trial, give evidence via videolink, and return when a conviction is secured.

Overseas territories taking part in the scheme are Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Montserrat and Turks and Caicos, according to the bill, which was tabled last Friday and is expected to be debated later this month.

It states somebody will be able to get help from a new Justice Protection Administrative Centre when:

• their testimony is credible and essential for a significant case;

• they can be relied upon to give evidence;

• prosecutors believe the witness or his associate needs protection or help.

The centre then has the option to give the person a new name, backed up by documents, and help pay for their living expenses and relocation.

Government would also help the witness get a job and access to education and health care overseas in the hope they eventually become self-sustaining.

People taking part in the relocation programme would have to hand over reams of personal details to help form the new identity, such as outstanding debts, bank balances, criminal history, medical condition and legal obligations.

Each participant would receive medical, psychological or psychiatric exams to check they are suitable.

Justice Protection would keep a "top secret" register of people involved in the programme; anyone put on the scheme must not reveal their former identity without permission.

Anyone who gives away details of someone's old identity or puts their safety at risk faces a fine of up to $100,000 or 15 years in prison.

In recent months, Police have complained about their difficulty persuading witnesses to come forward after major crimes, particularly gang-related violence, for fear of repercussions.

When Kimwandae Walker was shot in front of 100 people as he flew kites with his two young children on Good Friday, Police said nobody would even come forward with descriptions of the suspects.

However, it's thought the public has been more willing to help Police in recent times.

Earlier this year, officers revealed witnesses to gang-related shootings had been temporarily sent to the UK for protection.