Labour urges care on proposed justice reform

Labour will be making sure that Parliament gives careful consideration to every aspect of the 526 page criminal justice law reform bill unveiled today by the Justice Minister, says Labour's Associate Justice Spokesperson Charles Chauvel.

"There are certainly aspects of the system that need reform, the proposed change in threshold for jury trials makes sense when comparing the situation in New Zealand to that of other countries. In principle, we support it,” Charles Chauvel said.

"But that change is not simple. It will involve amending the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act. That should only ever be done if MPs are satisfied both of the need for the change, and that the particular amendment proposed is the correct way to go. A careful look at the detail of the proposed change will be required.

:Before deciding its final position on other aspects of the reforms, Labour will listen to the evidence and expert advice given at the select committee. Particular changes that need careful attention include allowing jury trials to proceed on a routine basis with as few as 10 jurors, and the suggestion that the defence should have to identify and disclose issues in dispute before a trial.

"Everyone wants a speedy and efficient justice system. But it's also important not to take away safeguards that make sure innocent people aren't punished. These reforms must not be rushed through Parliament without MPs looking closely at the intended effect of each one".

"Only a couple of weeks ago, Parliament proved the need to avoid hasty law-making in the criminal justice area. Under urgency, it had to pass the Summary Proceedings Amendment (No 2) because earlier legislation designed to do away with jury trials for property offences worth under $500 had exactly the opposite effect. MPs need to read each of the 526 pages of the current bill to make sure that mistake is not repeated,” Charles Chauvel said.

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