Verdict on Leveson?

Citing various commentary from leading lawyers, The Legal Diary quotes Louise Hodges, Chair of the CLLS Corporate Crime and Corruption Committee, as saying:

"There has been systematic underfunding of the Criminal Justice System by successive governments which has led to these recommendations. They are a worthy attempt to squeeze more out of a failing and under resourced system by pushing cases to the lower courts, reducing the right to trial by jury, diverting cases away from courts and reducing sentences. However it is a sad day when these measures are needed ‘to prevent a total collapse’. A criminal justice system that was once the envy of the world has sadly become a shadow of its former self. The CJS underpins a legal sector that contributes to the UK economy, generating substantial revenue, jobs, export value and creating a safe environment for investors and economic growth. However the follow-through on funding for justice has been starkly lacking.  Whichever of today’s recommendations are adopted by the government, should not be instead of investment. There also needs to be a corresponding ambitious programme of funding to demonstrate a commitment to the rule of law and to restore our justice system to one to be proud of. The Leveson proposals are a sticking plaster and not a solution."