Transforming Justice

Chris Purnell will discuss the changes envisaged by the Ministry of Justice in their recent consultation paper, e.g. as to the composition of Tribunal panels and the effect of some changes which have already taken place such as the imposition of fees on workers who wish to start claims in Employment Tribunals. There will be reference to ideas such as the ‘virtual court’ and the reconfiguration of the Ministry of Justice’s Court estate, but the prime object of the talk will be to raise questions e.g. Are the current reforms anything more than a cost saving exercise? What reforms really will improve the quality of justice and for whom?

Chris Purnell worked as an employed barrister between 1988 and 2011, largely at Law Centres in Tottenham and Plumstead, advising on employment law and some aspects of social security law and housing. He became experienced in representing workers at Employment Tribunals and the Employment Appeal Tribunal. Now largely retired, he has since July 2013 sat part time as a First Tier Tribunal judge in the social entitlement chamber hearing appeals against the refusal of benefits such as Personal Independence Payment by the Department of Work and Pensions.

Doors 10.30. Entry £3, £2 concs./free to Conway Hall Ethical Society members.

Tea, coffee & biscuits will be available.