§ 30. Mr. StunellTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what measures he proposes to reduce delays in the criminal justice system; and if he will make a statement. [7530]
§ Mr. HoonThe introduction of plea and directions hearings in the Crown court continues to reduce delays. In the magistrates courts, the Magistrates' Courts (Procedure) Bill introduced recently by the Lord Chancellor will speed up the progress of half a million minor motoring cases per year. Generally, the Government are considering the scope for reductions in delays in the criminal courts suggested by the review of delay in the criminal justice system, and there will be a further announcement in due course.