2010 press releases

26th Jun: Lewes MP Norman Baker to meet justice ministers over Lewes court closure

Lewes MP Norman Baker is set to meet with Justice Ministers in a bid to protect Lewes Magistrates' Court, which has been threatened with closure.

Earlier this week, the government published a consultation into the possibility of shutting 157 magistrates and county courts across England and Wales, including Lewes Magistrates' Court.

The government plans to modernise the court system to improve efficiency, and it is estimated that closing the 157 courts - 30% of the current total in England and Wales - could enable annual savings of £36.8 million to be made.

Lib Dem MP Norman Baker will now personally take up the issue with Courts Minister Jonathan Djanogly to attempt to convince him that Lewes Magistrates' Court should be kept open.

Norman Baker commented:

"Everyone understands that there is a need to reduce public spending, but it is vital that this is done only where appropriate. I believe that there is a strong case for keeping the Magistrates' Court in Lewes open.

"Given Lewes's status as a county town, and the fact that the Crown Court is set to remain open, it seems sensible for the Magistrates' Court to remain open alongside it. I am also concerned that the proposed closure will make it difficult for people in the area to attend court hearings and result in a shortage of court facilities within Lewes.

"Increasing efficiency within the court service is a laudable goal, but it is vital that people have sufficient access to court facilities. I plan to meet with the Courts Minister very shortly to explain why I believe Lewes is a special case, and seek assurances that people in the area will continue to have sufficient access to court services."

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