Croydon Crown Court: Backlogs 2026-09-15
2026-09-15
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Backlogs at Croydon Crown court have led to delays affecting court operations and impacting victims, witnesses, and defendants.
What steps are being taken to help tackle backlogs at Croydon Crown court? Backlogs across London have increased by 122% over the last decade, impacting victims of domestic abuse and sexual offences.
We are taking a three-pronged approach to reduce the Crown court waiting list, including increasing court capacity, removing financial constraints on sitting days, and driving efficiency through case coordinators. We will also bring forward structural reforms in the Courts and Tribunals Bill.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions to address backlogs at Croydon Crown court were not detailed
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The questioner visited Croydon Crown court and observed the impact of delays on victims of domestic abuse and sexual offences. Backlogs across London have increased by 122% over the last decade.
Will the Minister consider listening to Liberal Democrat calls to abandon plans to restrict trial by jury and instead create specialist sexual offence and domestic abuse courts to expedite sensitive cases?
I agree that waiting lists in London courts are appalling, impacting victims, witnesses, and defendants. We are taking a multifaceted approach, including court efficiencies, unlimited sitting days, and blitz court initiatives in London courts. I am willing to work with the hon. Member to address the issue.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific creation of specialist courts was not committed to
Response accuracy