The Law Society has released feedback on the Queen’s Speech and what it could mean for ‘the principles of justice’. Law Society President Robert Heslett said:
“Over the coming months we will be actively lobbying the new Government to ensure that the principles of justice, fairness – and in particular the ‘rule of law’ – are upheld and embedded in this new legislative program.
Mr Heslett added “we are delighted to see that the Coalition will bring forward plans to introduce a Freedom (Great Repeal) Bill, bring forward greater safeguards in the DNA database, protect historic freedoms through the defence of trial by jury, provide safeguards against the misuse of anti-terrorism legislation, introduce further regulation of CCTV and provide a new mechanism to prevent the proliferation of unnecessary new criminal offences.
Showing desire for a ‘common sense’ approach, the Law Society President said “we welcome the action the Government has already taken to suspend Home Information Packs and we await further details of the permanent abolition of HIPs. We also look forward to seeing the promised proposals to ensure that the Vetting and Barring Scheme is implemented on a more common sense level.
The Law Society also wish to work closely with the new coalition government to ensure that the legal aid system is managed and funded as a frontline service like the Police or health service.
