Ministry Business, a Question on Gaza and Campaigning in Brentford

Report back from Andy Slaughter, MP for Hammersmith and Chiswick

Andy Slaughter MP

March 8, 2025

This week the Justice Committee heard evidence from Ministry of Justice officials, Dame Antonia Romeo, Permanent Secretary, James McEwen, Chief Operating Officer and Ross Gribbin, Director General – Policy. Along with Amy Rees, Chief Executive HMPPS and Nick Godwin, Chief Executive HMCTS

The purpose of the evidence session was to look at the work of the Ministry of Justice with the aid of its senior management team. It was a good session with lots of information for the Committee to go away and think about. You can watch any of the public evidence session of the Committee on Parliament Live.

On Tuesday I contributed to the Urgent Question on the situation in Gaza. I asked the Secretary of State about the banning of supplies to Gaza, and how this is in breach of the Geneva Convention.

On Wednesday there was a statement from the Lord Chancellor on sitting days in the crown court. The backlog in the crown court is still of grave concern and I am pleased that the Lord Chancellor is trying to get to grips with the mess she inherited but there is still a long way to go.

Thursday was mainly focussed on the local council by-election in Brentford East ward. It was a good result for Labour candidate, Max Mosley, even though turnout was low. I am grateful to the volunteers who came out to help knock on doors and stand at school gates to get out the vote.

Spring has finally arrived, and with it, the wonderful Addison Singers have an upcoming performance of Mendelssohn’s Elijah at their annual Spring Concert. The event takes place on the 29th of March. Further details can be found on their website. 

Best wishes,

Andy

andy@andyslaughter.com

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