In June, a Consultation paper was produced by Her Majesty's Courts Service, a part of the Ministry of Justice.  This Consultation is looking at the provision of courts services in Wales.

The review of the HCMS Estate which included Courthouse closures and mergers of Local Justice Areas has highlighted that the Vale Magistrates Court is being considered for closure.   

Whilst I welcome the Consultation, my concern is that the full implications of the proposed Courthouse closure in Barry have been thought through.  I strongly oppose the closure of the Magistrates Court as it will deny cost effective justice to local people. 

You can read my response to the Consultation here, and if you want to find out more and view the Consultation online, visit www.justice.gov.uk