judicial independence

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MoJ says sentencing matter for judges
Judge ‘simply wrong’ to flout minimum sentences for gun crime

Legislation calling for tougher sentences for individuals convicted of gun crimes is being ignored by judges, a senior police officer has said. Bernard Hogan-Howe, chief constable of Merseyside police, said it was “simply wrong” for mandatory five-year sentences for possession of a firearm to be overlooked. Despite government attempts to toughen up sentencing, in 2005… Read more »

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Straw calls for politicians and media to stop criticising judges
Straw defends bail judges

The lord chancellor last night defended the independence of the judiciary after a series of attacks from politicians and the media over controversial bail decisions. Jack Straw said courts must be free to take bail decisions based on the information in front of them and free from outside interference and criticism. In a speech to… Read more »