This is not a political blog. But it would be churlish not to comment upon the passing of certain people from their place of influence as far as concerns Justices of the Peace.

NEW BROOMKenneth Clarke can certainly be seen as having caused greater harm and having greater culpability. He was amongst the first, if not the first, Secretary of State in June 2010 to announce that he would be slashing his budget which he did indeed do….. by 23%. He also announced plans to reduce the prison population and reduce legal aid. He argued [in vain] to remove the courts` ability to remand in custody defendants on summary only matters. He was responsible for the closure of almost 100 magistrates` courts. I doubt that many working in the courts will regret his leaving. As for Nick Herbert, ex police minister, having been passed over for a higher level position there will be no tears for his resignation. This precipitate show of pique fits perfectly with the character of an arrogant individual who tolerated little criticism……in his public pronouncements and interviews at least, he always strove for the last word.

Perhaps for the next three years Chris Grayling will oversee policies based on what is best for our justice system and not what is most expedient. One can live in hope.