Telford MP Shaun Davies welcomes Justice Minister to Telford
Shaun Davies, MP for Telford recently welcomed the Minister of Justice to Telford for a crucial visit aimed at exposing the mounting pressures on the local justice system.
The visit comes as the Government recently launched a once-in-a-generation reform of the criminal courts, aimed at delivering faster justice for victims and improving public safety.
The visit follows extensive efforts by Telford’s MP to shine a spotlight on the challenges in Shropshire’s court system, which Shaun has described as being "on its knees."
Recent research and responses to Parliamentary questions by Shaun Davies MP have revealed statistics that underline the urgent need for reform and investment in local justice services here in Telford.
Shaun Davies MP stated: "Our justice system is yet another example of broken public services in Telford, a result of 14 years of Conservative government. I know from speaking to residents that investigations drag on for years, and justice is being delayed. This visit from the Minister is an important opportunity to make clear the scale of the challenge we face here in Shropshire."
Previous findings by Shaun Davies have highlighted:
- A decline in magistrates, from 91 in 2019 to just 76 across Shropshire and Kidderminster
- Only 1 permanent Crown Court Judge currently serving the area, down from 2 in 2019
- No remand cases heard in Telford since 2017
- The West Midlands leading the country with 1,571 cases stuck awaiting Crown Court decisions
- Almost 50% of available court sessions unused at Telford Magistrates’ Court in 2022
- Courtroom 6 in Telford out of action since March 2023 due to unresolved roof repairs
- Case delays at Crown Court now averaging 42 days, above the target of 40
Shaun added: "Victims are being let down, witnesses are left in limbo, and the accused face long waits to clear their names. This is not justice — it’s a system in disarray. Telford voted for change, and since my election, I’ve been fighting for urgent reforms."
Positive changes are emerging due to reforms by the Labour Government. The Court Service has confirmed that a second Crown Court judge will be appointed in 2025, and for the first time since 2017, remand cases will be heard in Telford once again.
Shaun continued "I welcome the Government’s court reform plans and this vital ministerial visit, but it must lead to action. We need investment, capacity, and a justice system that works for the people of Telford and Shropshire. I will continue pressing the Government to ensure this review delivers real improvements where they are most needed."
