By IRNA
London : The most senior judge in England and Wales warned Tuesday that the courts system was “seriously overstretched,” contributed to by a “stream” of legislation.
Some legislation passed by parliament reflected the “politicization” of sentencing, Lord Chief Justice, Lord Phillips said in his annual review of the courts.
The report highlighted various reasons for the problems, including a series of computer glitches and a shortage of judges caused by the new appointments system.
There was also a backlog in repairs to the 700 court buildings that was said to be “ever-growing concern”.
The maintenance backlog stood at Pnds 200 million (Dlrs 400 m), of which Pnds 90 m was required for “urgent operational requirements.” Despite the serious overstretch, Lord Phillips warned that it must not “fetter the judge’s discretion” to impose sentences which reflect the different circumstances of each case.
In response to the report, the new Judicial Appointments Commission said average waiting times for appointing judges had been reduced from 24 weeks to 19 weeks.