Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Marie Rimmer and Caroline Dinenage

Tuesday 8th September 2015 Commons Chamber

[Caroline Dinenage]

My hon. Friend makes an excellent point, and I very much agree. Fewer people are making tribunal claims. It is only fair that those who can afford to make some contribution to the cost of the service they receive should do so. It cannot be right that hard-working taxpayers should pick up the entire bill of around £71 million for employment disputes in tribunals.

[Marie Rimmer (St Helens South and Whiston) (Lab)]

16 . Justice is a cornerstone of democracy, and access to justice is therefore critical. There are serious concerns about the Ministry of Justice’s proposals to close St Helens county and magistrates court. The practical impact on travel would be very serious. The travel times within the consultation—