Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 45
45
Rejected
Provide requisite resources to establish anonymisation unit for safe publication of Family Court judgments.
Conclusion
His Majesty’s Court and Tribunal Service should ensure that the requisite resources are provided to enable the establishment of an anonymisation unit that facilitates the publication of at least 10% of Family Court judgments without the risk of identification of the parties involved. (Paragraph 155) Open justice: court reporting in the digital age 57
Government Response Summary
The government does not commit to establishing an anonymisation unit for Family Court judgments due to significant resource requirements and conflicting priorities, stating its main focus is on reducing the family court backlog. It is exploring other options for increasing transparency.
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
114. We have been working alongside the PFD to understand the impact of the recommendations from his recent report on transparency. We remain committed to increasing transparency in family justice and the principles of open justice. 115. As per our response to similar recommendations above, delivering this recommendation would require considerable resources which must be carefully considered and balanced against existing Government’s commitments and priorities. We are working with the PFD to explore what other options might be available. 116. Our main focus must be on reducing the family court backlog, recognising the adverse impact these delays have on families. Conclusion 117. The Government is grateful to the JSC for its report. As outlined in this response, we have delivered, or are delivering, a number of initiatives that strengthen the principle of open justice and support the transparency and accessibility of our justice system. 118. We are committed to facilitating and supporting court reporting. We recognise the vital role the media play, and will continue to play, as our justice system is modernised to make it more straightforward, accessible, and efficient in the digital age. Our vision is to deliver a world-class justice system that works for everyone in society. 84 https://www.courtserve.net/