Oral Answers to Questions

Connor Rand Excerpts

Tuesday 3rd February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sarah Sackman]

I am sorry to hear about the case the hon. Lady raises. County court rules require that possession claims be listed for hearing within eight weeks of receipt and, in the main, we are hitting that target. Readiness for the coming into force of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 will be important, as will the modernising introduction of the end-to-end digital possession claims service, which will improve the situation for constituents like hers.

[Mr Connor Rand (Altrincham and Sale West) (Lab)]

For too long, victims in Altrincham and Sale West and across the country have been treated as secondary thoughts in the criminal justice system—left in limbo, not knowing their rights and feeling voiceless when decisions are made on bail and sentencing. What reassurances can the Minister give that victims will be at the heart of the justice system following the Government’s reforms?

[Alex Davies-Jones]

I thank my hon. Friend for that vital question about putting victims back at the heart of our criminal justice system. That is exactly what this Government are doing by providing free court transcripts for criminal cases, introducing new restriction zones in the Sentencing Act 2026, and consulting on a brand-new victims code to enshrine victims’ rights and ensure they have the ability to request information on parole and offender management. I would be happy to write to him with more information on how this Government are delivering for victims.