Solicitor General speaks on the value of justice

Edward Garnier QC MP, Solicitor General for England, Wales and Northern Ireland has stated that the current economic climate must not be allowed to damage the legal system and those it serves.

Speaking at The University of Northampton on the 17 November 2011 as part of the 2011-12 High Sheriff [of Northamptonshire's] Lecture Series, Mr Garnier said:

The Government were left with very little money when they came to power. I supported the campaign against the closure of the Magistrates Court in Market Harborough, which resulted in its nearest equivalent being in Leicester, some 15 miles away.

Cost cannot outweigh the need for law, and this is the circle that must be squared. We must reduce the budget, but not the administration and delivery of justice.

Talking about his role to over 100 students, staff and guests, Mr Garnier reflected on current challenges for the legal profession and justice. He added:

I act as legal advisor to the Government and the Queen while protecting the public interest on matters such as the laws of charity and contempt of court. My role is to ensure that legal cases are properly administrated and that justice is delivered fairly, both for victim and accused.

We need universities to continue producing high calibre graduates who are experts in the law. Not just for their own prosperity, but also for their own understanding of life and the benefits they can subsequently bring to society.