Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what funding her Department provides for dispute resolution within the justice system; what progress her Department has made in its aim to settle more disputes out of court; and if she will make a statement.

The government encourages people to use mediation as a way of resolving disputes.

In civil cases, there is an expectation that parties consider alternatives to court before issuing their claim and the court may impose costs sanctions if they do not do so. Where proceedings have been issued, HM Courts and Tribunals Service also offer mediation for small claims with a value under £10,000, where both parties consent.

The government remains committed to promoting family mediation, and legal aid remains available in such cases.