Thank you for contacting me about Elections Bill, the Judicial Review and Courts Bill and the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill.
I understand concerns about civil society organisations and campaign groups being prevented from adding their voice to the public debate but let me assure you that this would not be the case. The Elections Bill instead aims to make elections fairer and more transparent by requiring greater transparency from campaigners.
In 2019, I stood on a manifesto committed to ensure that the judicial review process is not open to abuse and delay. That is why I welcome the publication of the independent review of administrative law led by Lord Faulks QC.
Following the outcomes of the independent review, I believe that the Government’s newly introduced Judicial Review and Courts Bill will equip judges with the tools to give more tailored solutions in judicial review cases. The measures outlined in the Bill will allow the courts to delay the time it takes for their orders to come into force, allowing parties time to prepare.
I appreciate your concerns regarding the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill, and I want to assure you that freedom of assembly and freedom of expression are rights I wholeheartedly support. The measures in the Bill are not about stopping or clamping down on the right to protest but about ensuring the police are able to better manage highly disruptive protests and maintain the balance between the rights of a protestor and the rights of individuals to go about their daily business.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Craig Whittaker MP
August 2021