Oral Answers to Questions

Neil Shastri-Hurst Excerpts

Tuesday 15th September 2026 Commons Chamber

The Secretary of State was asked—

[Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst (Solihull West and Shirley) (Con)]

1. Whether he plans to proceed with the legislative proposals in the Courts and Tribunals Bill to restrict trial by jury.

[The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice (Alex Norris)]

Last week, the Leader of the House announced that the Courts and Tribunals Bill will return to this House on 13 October. I have been clear that my priority is to reduce the Crown court waiting list and enable victims to have their day in court more quickly. I look forward to working with experts in this House and beyond to deliver that.

[Dr Shastri-Hurst]

There are reports that the Government are considering tabling an amendment to the Courts and Tribunals Bill so that, in either-way offences, a judge will decide whether a defendant faces a jury or is heard by a single judge sitting alone. The legal profession has quite properly highlighted that this will lead to satellite litigation, with repeated appeals, and slow down the legal process. Will the Government finally listen to the legal profession, or will they plough on regardless?

[Alex Norris]

I would always caution the hon. Gentleman about believing reports. When there are things to be said, they will be said from the Dispatch Box. I think he would expect that I, as the new Lord Chancellor, and my right hon. Friend the new Prime Minister will look at every aspect of business in the Ministry of Justice to ensure that it is delivering for victims and for the public at large. The hon. Gentleman knows the legislation is coming back, and I look forward to discussing it in its fullness when it does.