Chief Justice speaks out against courts cuts

The Chief Justice has taken the unusual step of speaking out against cuts to the Courts Service, arguing if further savings are made court sittings may be affected.

In a speech to be delivered at the launch of its 2011 annual report this afternoon Ms. Justice Susan Denham says the service is dealing with what might be said to be a 'lion's share of austerity' and that certain cuts are, arguably, disproportionate - compared to other Justice Agencies.

She highlights staff numbers have been reduced by 11% percent and that non pay elements of the budget have been slashed by 28% since 2008.

Helen Priestley is head of the Information Service at the Courts Service: "I think having reviewed all of the areas where we provide sevices, we certainly feel we have pared back as far as we can.

"In looking at services we have to provide in ensuring there is access for the public to the courts, we've pared back as much as possible."