Summary
Nearly 40 Labour MPs have expressed concerns to Prime Minister Keir Starmer about plans to limit jury trials. They argue that removing the right to jury trials for certain offenses to reduce court backlogs could create more problems. Starmer has reassured that juries will still be used for the most serious cases, despite the proposed changes by Justice Secretary David Lammy.
Key Facts
- Almost 40 Labour MPs wrote to Prime Minister Keir Starmer about their concerns.
- The proposal would stop jury trials for crimes with likely sentences under three years.
- MP opposition says this change won't significantly reduce court backlogs.
- The Justice Secretary, David Lammy, announced the measure on December 3.
- The backlogs in court are projected to reach up to 100,000 cases by 2028.
- Currently, around 78,000 cases are waiting to be heard in Crown Court.
- Concerns include victims, such as those of rape, dropping cases due to delays.
- The proposal stems from recommendations by retired judge Sir Brian Leveson.
