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20 October 2016 / Dr Jon Robins
Issue: 7719 / Categories: Opinion , Legal aid focus , Legal services
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Cuts that hurt

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Amnesty International’s report shines an unforgiving light on the impact of LASPO, says Jon Robins​

“If Theresa May is really determined to deliver a country that works for all then there needs to be a justice system for everyone, not just those who can afford it,” said Alice Wyss of Amnesty International this week. According to the organisation, the April 2013 legal aid cuts have “decimated access to justice” and were, in human rights terms, “a retrogressive measure”.

Wyss was calling directly on the PM to immediately review the legal aid cuts. She was also quoting from Theresa May’s conference speech where she easily won over the party faithful with an attack on “activist left-wing human rights lawyers” and outlined plans to curb the “industry of vexatious allegations” against our troops by opting out of the European convention.

The powerful report from an international group more associated with highlighting abuses in far-flung corners of the world less familiar with the rule of law than the UK is well-timed—if unlikely to improve relations

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Browne Jacobson—Vicky Tomlinson

Browne Jacobson—Vicky Tomlinson

Browne Jacobson appoints Vicky Tomlinson as Head of Independent Health and Care

DWF—five appointments

DWF—five appointments

DWF further strengthens major injury and casualty offering with new partner and four directors from DAC Beachcroft

Switalskis—Laura Ornsby

Switalskis—Laura Ornsby

Switalskis strengthens Grimsby child care team

NEWS
Lawyers have welcomed plans to create specialist rape and serious sex offences courtrooms at every Crown Court
The Supreme Court has settled a long-running dispute over part-time workers: unfavourable treatment need be a significant or effective cause, not the sole cause
Arbitration may be private, but its confidentiality is no impenetrable shield. Writing in NLJ this week, James Glaysher of Kingsley Napley examines when courts will permit arbitral material to surface in open litigation
A telecoms operator may be able to hold over under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, yet still be unable to secure a renewal: an outcome described as a legal ‘paradox’
The Financial Reporting Council’s revised Audit Enforcement Procedure will alter the balance of power in corporate investigations
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