Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Alex Davies-Jones and Andrew Cooper

Tuesday 5th November 2024 Commons Chamber

[Andrew Cooper (Mid Cheshire) (Lab)]

T7. As has been said today, justice delayed is justice denied. I am sure that the Minister will agree that victims of domestic violence are being forced to wait years for their cases to be heard in court. A constituent of mine has told me that the delays in her case have left her feeling trapped, scared and let down by the criminal justice system, while, she feels, her abuser is free to move on with his life. What steps can my hon. Friend take to expedite domestic violence cases, so that victims are not left waiting for years?

[Alex Davies-Jones]

The Government inherited a record and rising court backlog, which has seen far too many victims and survivors waiting too long for justice. Decisions on case listing are a matter for the independent judiciary, who, when possible, look to prioritise cases involving vulnerable victims and witnesses. We are committed to bearing down on the caseload to speed up the delivery of justice for all victims.