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Written question asked by Lord Blencathra (Conservative) on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 5 August 2026. It was answered by Lord Lemos (Labour) on Monday, 3 August 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.

Courts and Tribunals Bill

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they intend to support further progress of the Courts and Tribunals Bill through Parliament.

Answer

This Government understands the pressure that is currently on the court system. The Crown Court backlog currently stands at over 80,000 cases and over 22,000 of those cases have been open for over a year. Behind each of those cases is someone awaiting justice – defendants seeking to clear their name and victims putting their lives on hold. The Crown Court caseload means that thousands of victims and witnesses are waiting years for their day in court. This cannot be acceptable. The justice system exists to serve the public, and this Government is committed to building a stronger justice system in which the public can have confidence.

The Courts and Tribunals Bill is currently progressing through Parliament and will have report stage in the House of Commons when parliamentary time allows.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL2484
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Criminal proceedings
Legislation
Courts and Tribunals Bill 2024-26 to 2026-27
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk