Lawyers raise concerns about crime bill

MPs will debate the Crime and Court Bill's Second Reading this afternoon.

It contains a range of measures, including plans to establish the National Crime Agency; changes to the judiciary and the structure, administration, proceedings and powers of courts and tribunals and plans to allow TV cameras into courtrooms.

“The Law Society remains concerned about plans to televise court proceedings," a spokesperson said.

"Whilst measures intended to improve public confidence in, and knowledge of, the justice system should be welcomed, it is important that sufficient safeguards to avoid sensationalist, partial or misleading reporting are incorporated."

The Bill was amended in the Lords to give some protection to householders from being arrested, prosecuted or convicted after injuring a burglar.

The Law Society said any change to the law of self-defence is "entirely unnecessary, as the current law is clear, proportionate and well understood".

"Rather than bring clarity, the amendment proposed in Clause 30 will lead to substantial confusion and increased litigation in the form of expensive appeals," a spokeswoman said.

She added that the Law Society welcomes a number of the provisions in the Crime and Courts Bill, "many of which will contribute to creating a more modern and effective criminal justice system".

“The Government is right to be concerned about diversity within the judiciary," she said.

"However, it is disappointing that the opportunity has not been taken to formalise the procedure for the appointment of UK judges to international courts or to address the current restrictions on Government lawyers seeking judicial appointment."