Our justice system should be driven by integrity and fairness, not just economics, says Jon Newman
Any MPs who had been hoping for a gentle return from the summer break may be feeling a little aggrieved. On 8 October the House of Commons resumes business with the second reading of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill. This is a major piece of legislation, spanning 129 clauses, 23 schedules and 236 pages.
The task will perhaps be eased by the extensive practice many members have had in scrutinising criminal justice proposals. Since 1997, more legislation has emanated from the Home Office than the preceding 100 years. Last year, the volume of fresh law had reached such a level it was reported that Labour was establishing new offences at double the rate of the previous Conservative administration (The Independent, 16 August 2006).
The danger is that this Bill becomes “just another” in the series, merely adding to the pile of legislation which many believe is congesting the system. However, two key factors distinguish it from its predecessors:
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