Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Covid-19: Justice System

Tuesday 16 March 2021 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 0 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Recent assessment made of the effect of the covid-19 outbreak on the justice system includes measures like compartmentalisation and the creation of Nightingale courts.
  • Regular discussions have been held with the Welsh Government, HMCTS, and HMPPS in Wales to ensure safety and service delivery.
  • Sobriety tags have been piloted successfully in Wales, and Newport Crown Court handled a multi-handed murder trial successfully.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Ruth Jones Lab Newport West and Islwyn
Justice & Courts
Context

The MP is concerned about the impact of the pandemic on the justice system in Wales, specifically mentioning communities in Newport West.

Question

What recent assessment has been made of the effect of the covid-19 outbreak on the justice system?

Answer from Robert Buckland

At the beginning of the pandemic, public health advice was followed and immediate action was taken across prison, probation, youth justice, and court services. Measures included compartmentalisation, testing, exceptional delivery models, creation of Nightingale courts, physical changes to courtrooms, and increased video technology.

Answered
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Q2 Ruth Jones Lab Newport West and Islwyn
Justice & Courts Wales Local Government
Context

The MP is concerned about the impact of the pandemic on communities in Newport West, specifically regarding access to justice.

Question

What discussions has he had with the Welsh Government about ensuring that those who need justice are able to get it in a timely manner?

Answer from Robert Buckland

The hon. Lady will be glad to know that I regularly engage with the Welsh Government, HMCTS, and HMPPS in Wales to ensure safety and service delivery. Sobriety tags have been piloted successfully in Wales, and Newport Crown Court recently handled a multi-handed murder trial successfully.

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