Courts IT System Debate

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Department: Ministry of Justice
Wednesday 23rd January 2019

(5 years, 3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lucy Frazer Portrait Lucy Frazer
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The issue that has arisen relates mainly to email systems. There has been minimal disruption, I am told, to the courts system as a whole. Obviously, where issues arise, we will investigate them and look into them thoroughly. Our whole programme of reform is intended to ensure that the users are at the heart of the system and that we ensure swift justice, with effective hearings delivered in the most efficient manner to ensure justice for everybody.

Kevin Foster Portrait Kevin Foster (Torbay) (Con)
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I must say it is a relief to hear that the Prison Service was not affected by this problem. Will the Minister reassure me completely that there is no prospect that any criminal hoping this may allow them to escape justice or be released slightly earlier will benefit? In essence, they will be very disappointed.

Lucy Frazer Portrait Lucy Frazer
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I am very glad to give the confirmation that the Prison Service system is a different IT system and no defendant has been released as a result.