There are no plans to scrap jury trials under an Andy Burnham premiership, a Downing Street spokesman has confirmed.
The new Prime Minister described the practice as a “cornerstone of our justice system” after journalists questioned him on the decisions made by the former Justice Secretary David Lammy.
Mr Burnham is said to have understood that Mr Lammy’s decisions were about keeping victims safe, but has opted to U-turn on the proposals.
Allies of the Makerfield MP previously said he was looking to scrap the controversial plans in the Courts and Tribunals Bill.
The former Justice Secretary’s reforms removed the right to a jury trial for crimes carrying a likely sentence of three years or less in England and Wales.
They aimed to tackle a record Crown Court backlog, with cases suggested to be sent to newly established “swift courts” to be heard by a single judge.
The controversial proposals prompted significant backlash from lawyers, campaigners, and some Labour MPs who warned the move undermines a crucial safeguard for fair trials.
The Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Lammy, was purged from Mr Burnham’s Cabinet during a lengthy reshuffle on Monday.
The new administration is yet to release any further plans on jury and court reforms in Britain.
