Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from the growing backlog of cases across various jurisdictions, affecting court users' experience and efficiency.
What assessment she has made of the implications for her policies of the backlog of cases in courts?
The Government are committed to reducing caseloads and bringing waiting times down. 18 Nightingale courtrooms remain open, and we plan to sit more than 105,000 days in the Crown court and more than 102,000 days in the family court this financial year.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific implications for her policies are not addressed with concrete details or commitments.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Hartlepool's court building has been closed since 2017, mothballed by the previous government. The question aims to explore the potential for reopening the court and increasing capacity.
Will my hon. Friend investigate the potential for reopening Hartlepool's court as part of our efforts to expand capacity and clear the backlog?
There are currently no plans to reopen Hartlepool magistrates court, but I would be happy to meet my hon. Friend alongside officials from HMCTS to discuss his concerns.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific investigation requested is not committed to, and the reason for non-reopening is provided without addressing reopening plans directly.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Torquay magistrates court closed in the last decade, causing local justice issues for residents.
Can the Minister assure the House that there will be some reviews to ensure that justice is served more locally to our communities?
I am happy to discuss that matter with him, possibly alongside looking at the court in Chorley.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific review requested is not committed to directly, and no concrete timeline or mechanism for local justice reviews is provided.
Response accuracy