Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what steps they are taking to increase security for judges, in the light of reduced staffing in courts.

My Department takes the security of judges extremely seriously. Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunal Service and the police work closely together to ensure that effective risk assessments are undertaken if a judge is at significant risk of harm and proportionate steps are taken to mitigate any risk.

Security within courts, including that of the judges, staff and customers is provided in a number of ways. Court Security Officers, who have specific powers under the provisions of the Courts Act 2003 (including a duty to search on entry and the power to exclude, remove and restrain persons in the court) are in place in all courts. These officers are predominantly provided as part of a wider total facilities management contract with Mitie and G4S.

Physical security standards are also in place to protect the judges. These include barriers, panic alarms to summon immediate assistance, and judicial escape routes.