Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office
Tuesday 10th January 2023

(1 year, 3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Dominic Raab Portrait Dominic Raab
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I would want to put public protection first and foremost, but of course it will all depend on the circumstances of any individual case.

Rachael Maskell Portrait Rachael Maskell (York Central) (Lab/Co-op)
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Speed is compromising scrutiny in the magistrates court when it comes to the issuing of warrants to fit prepayment meters. In one court, 496 cases were signed off in just 3 minutes and 51 seconds, including cases involving children, disabled people and people experiencing fuel poverty. What steps will the Minister take to ensure that magistrates scrutinise every single application?

Mike Freer Portrait Mike Freer
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I appreciate that this is a sensitive issue for families and people who can be very vulnerable. Obviously the judiciary is independent, but I will raise those concerns with the judiciary to see if I can find out the details, and stress the importance of getting it right and not rushing justice.