Oral Answers to Questions

Linsey Farnsworth Excerpts

Tuesday 10th September 2024 Commons Chamber

[Alex Davies-Jones]

I know that the hon. Gentleman is passionate about this field of justice. His question gives me the opportunity also put on record my thanks to ISVAs, who do immense work across this field day in and day out, supporting victims of these abhorrent crimes—the work they do is invaluable. This Government are committed to introducing independent legal advocates to help victims and survivors get the support they need, and we are working with our stakeholders across the sector to ensure that support is available.

[Linsey Farnsworth (Amber Valley) (Lab)]

5. What assessment she has made of the impact of recent disorder on the criminal justice system.

[Alex Baker (Aldershot) (Lab)]

17. What assessment she has made of the impact of recent disorder on the criminal justice system.

[Linsey Farnsworth]

As a Crown prosecutor for 21 years, I know only too well that the court backlog has been worsened by repair issues forcing courts to close. What is the Secretary of State doing to address the repairs needed to the court estate, so that victims in my constituency of Amber Valley and across the country can get access to justice?

[Shabana Mahmood]

I thank my hon. Friend for that question. It is of course crucial that courts are in a position where the building—the infrastructure itself—does not prevent them from being able to sit. It will be a priority for this Government to resolve those issues, so that cases can be heard and victims can be given the justice that they deserve.