Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Chris Philp and Mark Pawsey

Tuesday 14th September 2021 Commons Chamber

[Mark Pawsey (Rugby) (Con)]

T7. My constituent is involved in a case where controlling and coercive behaviour is alleged, and the case has been delayed due to both covid and a number of failures within the court process. The delays mean she continues to have to interact with her ex-partner on matters such as arranging contact with their children, causing her great distress in the process. What steps is the Department taking to ensure that victims of domestic abuse are able to have their cases heard in a timely manner?

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Chris Philp)]

I am extremely sorry to hear of the experience hon. Friend’s constituent has undergone. I can confirm that this area is a priority in court recovery from covid. For example, domestic violence protection orders are being prioritised. In cases where there is a particular vulnerability, the judiciary, in deciding which cases to list, give that careful consideration. As I laid out in answer to the very first question, significant additional resources have gone into the justice system, which have resulted in higher levels of public family law disposals—they are significantly higher this year than last. We are using remote hearing technology and getting extra sitting days organised, for exactly the reasons he mentioned; hearing awful cases such as the one he described remains a significant priority.

Neighbourhood Planning Bill

Debate between Chris Philp and Mark Pawsey

2nd reading: House of Commons & Money resolution: House of Commons
Monday 10th October 2016 Commons Chamber

[Chris Philp]

Before being elected to the House, I ran a business that financed construction projects. I have to tell the hon. Lady that people engaged in such projects frequently complain about the onerous conditions. To give one example, they complain about the requirement to have a bat survey.

[Mark Pawsey (Rugby) (Con)]

And newts!

[Chris Philp]

And newt surveys. Such surveys can be done only at certain times of the year. That is a very onerous and often very serious set of conditions.