All 1 Debates between Stephen Phillips and Caroline Lucas

Justice and Security Bill [Lords]

Debate between Stephen Phillips and Caroline Lucas
Monday 4th March 2013

(11 years, 8 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Caroline Lucas Portrait Caroline Lucas
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Like the special advocates and many others in the legal profession, I believe that PII is a safer way forward than having hearings in closed courts, and I stand by that.

Stephen Phillips Portrait Stephen Phillips (Sleaford and North Hykeham) (Con)
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On a related point, the Government are currently obliged to settle cases, with none of the evidence ever being disclosed and no hearing at all. They never go before a judge. How would deleting clause 6 assist in ensuring that there is justice in such cases? At the moment, there is no trial at all.

Caroline Lucas Portrait Caroline Lucas
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I would argue, and a huge amount of legal opinion argues with me, that secret courts are a worse option. We would not choose either option, but I strongly believe that closed courts are a step too far for British justice.