Law Soc comments on Queen’s Speech

The speech unveiled the Coalition Government’s legislative programme for a ’strong and fair society’ for the coming year.

The president, Robert Heslett, says: “The Society welcomes a number of the measures set out in the Queen's Speech. The Society, as the voice of the largest part of the legal sector, also has a unique perspective on the issues affecting justice and the fabric of society. 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.

“On the measures announced today, 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.”

Heslett, who welcomes the suspension of Home Information Packs, says the Society will “work constructively” with politicians to “ensure that sensible reforms are carried out that avoid undesirable unintended consequences”.

He adds: “We will also want to work very closely with the Government to ensure that the proposed fundamental review of legal aid ensures that the legal aid system is managed and funded as a frontline service, as important as health and education.”