NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MONDAY 2 SEPTEMBER 2002
STUC ANGER AT EXECUTIVE'S CONSULTATION FAILURE
The STUC has questioned the decision of the Scottish Executive to exclude the trade union movement from a consultation exercise to seek comment on increased fees for those using the Civil Justice system. The Executive proposals are due to be considered by the Justice II Committee this Wednesday, 4th September.
Ian Tasker, STUC Health and Safety Officer, said:
"It would appear ludicrous that the STUC and our affiliated unions happened to be excluded from this process. That could hardly be described as wide ranging, with the views of only 15 organisations being sought, on an issue that may disenfranchise many low earners from their right to access to Justice.
"The increases, ranging from the rate of inflation back dated for three years, to 150%, include Judicial time that will now be charged at either £33 or £16 per half hour, increasing from £26 and £13.00 respectively, depending where the hearing is held.
"We do not feel the Executive's proposals with regard to excluding those on benefit or legal aid go far enough. With further increases expected in the future, many more people are at risk of being denied Justice as the Court service is priced beyond the means of an increasing proportion of the population.
"The Executive quite clearly states their intention to fully recover costs from those using the courts in the consultation document. However, we would argue that this move, and their admission that they are following a policy set by their predecessors to be short sighted, and does not address other Trade Union concerns in relation to our Justice system. It is also worth adding that both the Labour MPs, when in opposition, and the current Justice Minister strongly opposed Amendments to Sheriff Court Fees in 1994, and indeed, challenged the Conservative Government on their failure to consult with the STUC, and a number of other bodies.
Tel: 0141 337 8100 / Fax: 0141 337 8101 / Email: itasker@stuc.org.uk
"We believe that instead of tinkering with fees, that will certainly provide more income for the Executive, these proposals should be part of a far wider review of the Civil Justice system, designed to ensure that those using the courts can be guaranteed a faster and more efficient service.
"This can only be achieved by widespread and inclusive consultation process involving all social partners, a process which the Justice Department have failed to carry out in respect of fee increases."
Note to Editors: Details of the consultation and those consulted can be found on the Scottish Executive Website.
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/consultations/justice/court-fees-00.asp
Further Comment: