2. What discussions has the Counsel General had with the UK Government regarding the backlog of cases in Welsh courts? OQ61314

Thank you for your question. The court backlogs are considered at Inter-ministerial Group for Justice meetings. The recent National Audit Office report shows the increasing extent of Crown Court backlogs but does not contain regional data or insights. I understand that Wales performs better than average, yet the average backlog of court cases is serious and unacceptable.

Thank you for the response, Counsel General. Over the last five years, we have seen a staggering 346 per cent increase in the number of rape cases held up in the Crown Court's backlog, which is totally unacceptable, as delays and lack of support lead to 42 per cent of victims withdrawing from cases. I was pleased, therefore, to see UK Labour has committed to establishing 80 new rape courts across England and Wales. These courts will be used to fast-track cases as part of plans to tackle violence against women and girls. Counsel General, do you agree with me that these changes are much needed and will be welcomed by victims across Wales?

Well, can I thank the Member for those comments because you make very valid points? Over the last 14 years, we have seen the delivery of justice really moving to a precipice. The closure of courts, the failure to maintain courts, the failure to invest in the justice system, the failure to invest in legal aid has brought, really, our justice system to a precipice. There are now 67,573 outstanding court cases in England and Wales. There's been a 78 per cent increase in Crown Court backlogs since 2019; 18,045 cases on 31 December 2023 had been outstanding in the Crown Court for one year or more; 1,436 trials had been cancelled on the hearing day in 2023 because all legal professionals required were not available; as you've said, there has been a 346 per cent increase in the number of adult rape cases in the Crown Court's outstanding case load between 31 December 2019 and 31 December 2023; and 16,005 people who are remanded in prison have been waiting for trial or sentencing, with 2023 recording the highest level for at least 50 years. Yes, I do welcome the imminent arrival of a new Labour government, and a government that is committed to delivering justice and repairing some of the damage that has been done to our justice system over the past 14 years.