Oral Answers to Questions

Rosie Cooper Excerpts

Thursday 24th September 2020 Commons Chamber

[The Attorney General]

I thank my hon. Friend for that question. He will be aware of the Law Officers’ convention, which forbids me from confirming the fact of legal advice or the content of it, so I will not divulge any details about who may have assisted me in the drafting of legal advice. However, I am grateful to him for his contribution in finding a resolution, and particularly for his support on the Government amendments tabled earlier this week, which introduce a break-glass clause. That upholds the supremacy of Parliament, giving it an extra check and opportunity to look closely at and examine the case for taking this action. I believe that is lawful and constitutional.

[Rosie Cooper (West Lancashire) (Lab)]

What steps she is taking to reduce the backlog of cases in the criminal justice system.

[Gerald Jones (Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney) (Lab)]

What steps she is taking to reduce the backlog of cases in the criminal justice system.

[The Solicitor General (Michael Ellis)]

Covid-19 has presented an unprecedented challenge for the criminal justice system, and significant cross-system working has been under way to keep cases moving through the system throughout the pandemic. Prosecutors and front-line CPS staff have continued to cover open courts throughout the outbreak. I pay tribute and put on record my sincere thanks to all the staff at the Crown Prosecution Service for continuing to support the justice system, and to the independent Bar and solicitors as well.

[Rosie Cooper [V]]

Following the comments of Judge Raynor, who accused the Government of systemic failure for not conducting trials in a reasonable time, what steps is the Attorney General taking with the Lord Chancellor to increase the number of safe and effective jury trials?