Committee publication · Correspondence · 23 June 2026
Correspondence from Catherine Feast, Chief Executive of the Magistrates' Association, dated 17 June 2026: Response to the Justice Committee Report on the Courts and Tribunals Bill
From: Justice Committee
Summary
The Magistrates' Association responds to the Justice Committee's report on the Courts and Tribunals Bill, welcoming scrutiny while defending the magistracy's capacity and readiness for expanded roles. It addresses three core concerns: recruitment and retention challenges, the proposed extension of sentencing powers to 18 months, and diversity in the judiciary. The Association argues magistrates have demonstrated adaptability and advocates for proper resourcing, training frameworks, and consultation on reforms.
Key findings
- Recent recruitment uplift shows improvement in the application and onboarding process, with timescales reduced from over two years to significantly faster progression, though recruitment statistics are awaited to confirm overall progress.
- Retention challenges persist due to poor court estate conditions (faulty heating, lighting, leaks, non-functioning lifts) and slow repair processes; the Association calls for improvements to magistrates' day-to-day working environment.
- Magistrates have proven capacity to adapt to sentencing power changes, successfully transitioning from 6 to 12 months in 2024, and the Association supports extension to 18 months provided appropriate training and support frameworks are in place.
- The Association emphasises the need for full consultation with magistrates on proposed reforms, including removal of rights of appeal, given their far-reaching impact on the administration of justice.
- An inclusive expenses regime is essential to attracting diverse candidates, particularly those in employment who might otherwise be deterred from unpaid judicial service.
Tone
ProceduralTopics
Key actors
Magistrates' Association, Catherine Feast, Justice Committee, Sir Brian Leveson, District Judges, Government
Notable line
“Magistrates have consistently demonstrated their ability to adapt to changes in sentencing powers and their willingness to be trained …”
Key Quotes
“We welcome the publication of the Committee's recent report, which comes at a critical stage in the Bill's passage through Parliament.”
“… there are many others where simple improvements would make a considerable difference and improve the day-to-day experience and environment magistrates operate in – such as faulty heating and lighting, leaks and lifts being out of order.”
“Magistrates have consistently demonstrated their ability to adapt to changes in sentencing powers and their willingness to be trained , most recently in the successful transition from six to 12 months in 2024 .”
“The issue is not one of readiness or ability to adapt, but of ensuring that the appropriate frameworks and training are in place throughout the transition.”
“It is vital for public confidence that judicial office holders reflect the local communities they serve.”
Source · parliament.uk record ↗