On Wednesday 16th September, Jo Churchill MP took part in a Westminster Hall Debate, attended by other Suffolk MPs and Justice Minister, Shailesh Vara MP, to raise her concerns about the proposed closure of the Court in Bury St Edmunds.
Challenging the proposal, Mrs Churchill said: “…one cannot put a price on local access to justice. In a system that claims to guarantee legal rights, access to justice sits at its foundations… That is the most basic requirement, and indeed it was the cornerstone of the Magna Carta which, incidentally, was planned by the barons in 1214 in Bury St Edmunds. One can see, therefore, why we are a little incensed.
Advocating an alternative to closure, Mrs Churchill continued: “Integrating the court into the public service village in Bury could provide it with improved accommodation that could be shared when not in use, thereby delivering more cost-efficient services across the board.”
Mr Vara responded: “Let me make one thing absolutely clear. There is no doubt that all three Members have been diligent and conscientious in how they have spoken up for their constituents. They have corresponded with me and met me. Indeed, they have enforced the point by having this debate…
I again emphasise that the consultation on the reform of the court system in England and Wales is genuine. Indeed, the consultation asks people to make submissions if they can suggest alternative places where the court can sit.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
Transcript: - http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201516/cmhansrd/cm150916/halltext/150916h0001.htm#15091629000221