Lords debates UK legal system
10 July 2014
Members of the Lords, including two former Supreme Court justices, a former Attorney General and several practising QCs, debated the contribution of legal systems to the international standing of the UK, on Thursday 10 July.
This was a general debate, which usually take place on a Thursday in the Lords chamber. During debates, Lords are able to put their experience to good use, checking and challenging the government.
The debate was requested by former Lord Chief Justice, Lord Woolf (Crossbench), and focused on the vital role played by legal institutions and services, and the position of the rule of law at the heart of the British constitution. Issues raised during the debate included:
- the quality of the judiciary
- the office of Lord Chancellor
- criticism of the lack of judicial diversity
- proposed changes to judicial review
- human rights
- the impact of cuts in legal aid
- mediation
- the importance of televising court proceedings
- the overseas influence of British legal services.
Further information
- Attend debates in the chamber
- Follow @ukhouseoflords on Twitter
- Like House of Lords on Facebook
- Watch House of Lords videos on YouTube
- View the House of Lords on Flickr
- Connect with members on the Lords Digital Chamber