Access to Justice 2023-02-01
2023-02-01
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is assessing the effectiveness of the CPS in ensuring access to justice for crime victims.
What recent assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the Crown Prosecution Service in ensuring access to justice for victims of crime?
All victims of crime deserve the right support, and the CPS has published the findings of independent research and is implementing changes based on that to deliver what victims need. There is new and innovative victim communication for half of CPS areas.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific assessment or evaluation of effectiveness
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
As of September 2022, over 17,300 Crown court cases had been outstanding for a year or more.
Justice delayed is justice denied. What does the Attorney General have to say to victims whose lives are on hold due to delays in bringing their cases to court?
The hon. Gentleman raises an important point, and the Attorney General and I are working closely with the Ministry of Justice. There has been good progress in terms of the CPS and the time it takes for cases to be heard. The most recent figures show that on average it is 171 days.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address the impact of delays on victims or provide a statement from the Attorney General
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Victims navigate the criminal justice system with limited resources and information.
What is the CPS doing to inform and support people to navigate the criminal justice system?
The CPS has launched a new online guide for victims, ensuring that they have access to necessary information. Accessible information is key to supporting victims and ensuring navigation of the criminal justice system.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
There is a disparity between criminal defence and prosecution barristers' pay, affecting cases.
What will the Solicitor General do to address the disparity in barrister pay and put victims first?
We are putting victims first, and indeed we are doing so. The Treasury has agreed to consider CPS funding following the publication of a criminal legal aid independent review. Discussions on fees and funding continue, aiming to prioritize victims and ensure cases progress quickly.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific plan or commitment to address pay disparities
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
A tragic case involving Sharlotte-Sky's mother Claire, who waited over a year for answers from blood tests.
What engagement has the Solicitor General had with the Department for Transport about its review to speed up answers for police and victims?
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend who brought an Adjournment debate concerning the unduly lenient sentence scheme. I am determined to work closely across Government, and I know that my hon. Friend will continue his campaign to pursue this.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address engagement with Department for Transport or speeding up blood test results
Changed Subject
Response accuracy