- Justice Secretary David Lammy's controversial court reforms, including plans to curb jury trials for less serious offences, passed their first parliamentary hurdle in the House of Commons.
- The Courts and Tribunals Bill, aimed at tackling a backlog of 80,000 crown court cases, received 304 votes in favour to 203 against at its second reading.
- Safeguarding minister Jess Phillips, a victim of the court backlog herself, expressed full support for the reforms, highlighting her own case where a trial for a restraining order breach is not due until 2028.
- Labour MP Charlotte Nichols, a rape survivor, criticised the Government for 'weaponising' victims' experiences to push through the bill, arguing it is not truly victim-focused despite her own 1,088-day wait for court.
- The reforms, which also include unlimited court sitting days and increased use of AI, have faced opposition from over 3,200 legal experts but are supported by a group of female Labour MPs and Victims' Commissioner Claire Waxman.
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