Keep in touch with latest developments at JUSTICE

  • EM (Lebanon) v Secretary of State for the Home Department
    On 21 July, the House of Lords will begin hearing an appeal concerning the scope of the 'flagrant breach' exception to immigration removal under the Human Rights Act. JUSTICE and Liberty have been granted leave to intervene jointly in the case. Click here to read the written submissions (July 2008)
  • JUSTICE briefing on the Criminal Evidence (Witness Anonymity) Bill
    Click here to read our briefing for all stages in the House of Commons emergency debate and click here to read our press release (July 2008)

  • House of Lords begins hearing appeal in Serious Fraud Office v Corner House
    On 7 July, the House of Lords began hearing the appeal of the Director of the Serious Fraud Office against the judgment of the Divisional Court that his discontinuance of the BAE bribery investigation was an unlawful submission to a threat to the rule of law. JUSTICE has been granted leave to intervene in the case: click here to read our written submissions (July 2008)

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Counter Terrorism Bill
    Click here to read our briefing for second reading in the House of Lords (July 2008)

  • The Human Rights Law Conference 2008
    Building on ten years of the Human Rights Act
    10th Annual Conference
    Tuesday 21 October 2008
    Holiday Inn Bloomsbury, London WC1N 1HT
    For more information click here (June 2008)

  • JUSTICE submission to the Joint Committee on Human Rights inquiry into Policing and Protest
    Click here to read JUSTICE's written submission to the Joint Committee (June 2008)

  • JUSTICE is very pleased to announce that our director, Roger Smith, was awarded an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours list in recognition of his services to human rights (June 2008)

  • JUSTICE rejects Home Secretary's claim on international comparisons in 42 days debate
    Click here to read JUSTICE's press release responding to a letter from the Home Secretary concerning comparisons in periods of pre-charge detention between the UK and other countries (June 2008)

  • JUSTICE supplementary briefing on the Counter Terrorism Bill for Commons Report stage
    Click here to read our supplementary briefing on the government's proposed amendments for the 42 day extension for Report stage in the House of Commons and click here for our briefing for the second reading debate (June 2008)

  • JUSTICE response to A Structured Sentencing Framework and Sentencing Commission
    Click here to read our response to the consultation paper from the Sentencing Commission Working Group (June 2008)

  • JUSTICE welcomes amendment to Health and Social Care Bill
    Click here to read the joint briefing of JUSTICE, Liberty, the British Institute of Human Rights, Help the Aged and Age Concern on the Health and Social Care Bill for Committee stage in the House of Lords, and here to read the joint press release welcoming the government's proposed amendment, extending the Human Rights Act to publicly-funded patients in private care homes (May 2008)
  • House of Lords hears appeals on witness protection and the right to life
    On 19 May, the House of Lords began hearing two joined appeals in the cases of Chief Constable of Hertfordshire v Van Colle and Chief Constable of Sussex v Smith, concerning the failure of police to protect witnesses from death threats. JUSTICE, together with Liberty, INQUEST and MIND, have been granted leave to intervene concerning the duty of police under Article 2 ECHR (the right to life) to take operational measures to protect the lives of witnesses. Click here to read the interveners' written submissions (May 2008)
  • JUSTICE briefing on the Torture (Damages) Bill
    JUSTICE is supporting the private members bill introduced by Lord Archer of Sandwell QC on behalf of REDRESS. Click here to read more about the Bill and here to read our briefing for second reading in the House of Lords (May 2008)
  • JUSTICE Student Human Rights Network
    Spring 2008 electronic bulletin published (May 2008)

  • New JUSTICE publication: Crime, Rights and the EU
    The future of police and judicial cooperation
    Edited by Maik Martin
    In an increasingly interconnected world, supranational bodies like the European Union have an ever greater influence over our lives. We enjoy greater ease of movement and trade. But what of our fundamental rights and freedoms? Have these kept pace with the speed of change?
    Contents include:
    Fundamental rights in EU justice and home affairs
    Legitimacy, accountability and fundamental rights in an area of freedom, security and justice
    The role of fundamental rights evaluation in the establishment of the area of freedom, security and justice
    Mutual recognition, harmonisation and fundamental rights protection
    Law enforcement cooperation in the EU and fundamental rights protection
    Data protection in the third pillar

    ISBN 978 0 907247 44 9
    Price: £25 (£22.50 to JUSTICE members) Postage is free on UK orders
    Format: A5
    Extent: 194pp
    Published: 21 April 2008

    Click here for more information and an order form (April 2008)

  • JUSTICE launches third Futures paper
    Human Rights and the Future of the European Union argues that EU institutions must be governed by a clear and coherent legally binding and enforceable human rights framework. Without such a framework, the EU risks becoming a black hole for fundamental rights rather than a champion of the principles of human rights, democracy and the rule of law on which it was founded. Click here to read the paper (April 2008)
  • JUSTICE briefing on the Counter Terrorism Bill
    Click here to read our briefing for second reading in the House of Commons (March 2008)

  • JUSTICE joint briefing on the Health and Social Care Bill
    Click here to read the joint briefing of JUSTICE, Liberty, the British Institute of Human Rights, Help the Aged and Age Concern on the Health and Social Care Bill for second reading in the House of Lords (March 2008)

  • Norris v United States of America
    On 12 March, the House of Lords held that the common law offence of conspiracy to defraud could not form the basis for extradition to the US on charges of price fixing without dishonesty. JUSTICE intervened in the case to argue that the common law could not be used in this way without breaching legal certainty and Article 7 ECHR. Click here to read the Lords judgment, here to read JUSTICE's intervention and here to read the press release (March 2008)

  • JUSTICE welcomes European Court of Human Rights judgment upholding absolute ban against return to torture
    On 28 February, the Grand Chamber of the Court issued its unanimous judgment in Saadi v Italy in which it rejected the submissions of the UK government that the absolute ban on non-refoulement under Article 3 ECHR should be weakened. Click here to read the judgment of the Grand Chamber, here to read the joint press release of 11 human rights NGOs including JUSTICE, and here to read JUSTICE's covering press release (February 2008)

  • After Lisbon
    Protecting Fundamental Rights in the European Union
    Wednesday 30 April 2008
    Jury's Great Russell Street, 16-22 Great Russell Street, London WC1
    Organised by JUSTICE and Sweet & Maxwell
    For further information click here

  • JUSTICE response to Best Value Tendering of Criminal Defence Services: a consultation paper issued by the Legal Services Commission
    Click here to read our response and here to read the press release (February 2008)

  • JUSTICE welcomes PM's announcement on intercept evidence
    Following the publication of the Chilcot Report, the government has announced that it is prepared to lift the ban on using intercept material as evidence in criminal proceedings. JUSTICE welcomed the announcement but cautioned that complexity should not be allowed to delay implementation of the measure. Click here to read the PM's announcement, here to read the Chilcot Report (the report of the Privy Council Review on the use of as evidence), here to read JUSTICE's 2006 study on intercept evidence and here to read JUSTICE's press release (February 2008)

  • JUSTICE Student Human Rights Network Conference
    Human Rights Law: Today's issues for tomorrow's lawyers
    Saturday 8 March 2008
    Hosted by Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and supported by the College of Law and the Guardian
    £10 fee (£5 to JUSTICE student, pupil and trainee members)
    Click here for conference flyer and booking form

  • JUSTICE opposes 42 day detention in terror cases
    JUSTICE has criticised proposals contained in the Counter-Terrorism Bill published on 24 January to further extend pre-charge detention. Click here to see the Bill as introduced in Parliament and click here for JUSTICE's press release (January 2008)

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill for second reading in the House of Lords
    Click here to read the briefing (January 2008)

  • JUSTICE welcomes Home Affairs Committee report on pre-charge detention
    Click here for the press release (December 2007)

  • Al Jedda v Secretary of State for Defence
    On 12 December, the House of Lords held by a 4-1 majority the UK government was responsible under international law for the use of internment powers under UN Security Council Resolution 1546. JUSTICE and Liberty jointly intervened in the case to argue that Resolution 1546 did not displace the right to liberty under Art 5 ECHR. Click here to read the Lords judgement, here to read the JUSTICE submissions and here to read the press release (December 2007)
  • JUSTICE responds to latest government proposals on pre-charge detention
    Click here for the press release (December 2007)

  • From Arrest to Charge in 48 Hours: Complex terrorism cases in the US since 9/11
    The UK government argues that the increasing complexity of terrorism cases requires the extension of pre-charge detention beyond 28 days. In the US, however, the Fourth Amendment limits the maximum period of pre-charge detention in criminal cases to 48 hours. JUSTICE has released a report examining ten of the most high-profile alleged terrorism plots in the US since 9/11, showing how the increasing complexity of cases has not prevented each suspect being charged within 48 hours of their arrest. Click here for a pdf copy of the report or click here to read the press release (November 2007)

  • JUSTICE and Liberty's joint submission to the UN Human Rights Council's forthcoming examination of the UK under the new Universal Periodic Review procedure
    Read a copy of the joint submission here (November 2007)

  • JUSTICE and Liberty's joint submission to the UN Human Rights Committee on the UK's 6th periodic report under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
    Read a copy of the joint submission here (November 2007)

  • JUSTICE launches report on a British Bill of Rights
    All three political parties agree that it is time for a national debate on the desirability of a bill of rights. A British Bill of Rights: Informing the debate clearly lays out the issues that will need to be addressed in a proper public consideration of the subject.
    Download the report for free. Printed copies are available at £9.99 (£8.99 to JUSTICE members) - click here for more information and an order form (November 2007)

  • JUSTICE welcomes creation of Youth Justice Unit and calls for new focus
    Click here for the press release (November 2007)

  • JUSTICE reminds reviewers of rape law that legal changes are not the whole answer
    JUSTICE today responded to David Cameron's pledge to tackle low conviction rates for rape, reminding politicians that legal changes are not the whole answer and that the right to a fair trial must be protected. Click here for the press release (November 2007)

  • JUSTICE republishes Lord Alexander’s seminal lecture
    Iraq: the pax Americana and the law
    ‘ ... a virtuoso performance. Many others have now argued in similar vein, but Alexander was the first of his legal stature to do so, and his lecture reads and convinces today just as powerfully as when he gave it.’
    Marcel Berlins, The Guardian, 20 March 2006
    To download a PDF of the lecture, click here.
    For more information click here.
    Free printed copies are available - please email your details to admin@justice.org.uk.
    JUSTICE is grateful to 3-4 South Square Chambers for its support of this publication.

  • The Counter-Terrorism and Human Rights Conference 2007
    New Policy, New Practice?
    Wednesday 12 December 2007
    Organised by JUSTICE and Sweet & Maxwell
    For more information click here

  • JUSTICE Press Release: House of Lords decides control order appeals: 'A victory for fairness over secrecy'
    Click here to read the press release and here to read our control orders appeals briefing paper (October 2007)

  • JUSTICE launches second Futures paper: The Future of the Rule of Law (October 2007)

  • House of Lords hears appeal against indefinite detention in Iraq
    On 29 October, the House of Lords began hearing an appeal against the indefinite detention of a dual Iraqi/UK national in southern Iraq by British forces. A key issue in the case concerns whether UN Security Council resolution 1546 overrides Article 5 (the right to liberty) of the European Convention on Human Rights. JUSTICE and Liberty have been granted leave to intervene jointly in the case. Click here to read the written submissions or click here to read the press release (October 2007)

  • JUSTICE invites you to the launch of:
    A British Bill of Rights
    Informing the debate
    Monday 19 November, 6pm
    The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1PL
    Speakers:
    Michael Wills MP, Minister of State for the Ministry of Justice
    Dominic Grieve QC MP, Shadow Attorney General
    Baroness Williams of Crosby, Liberal Democratic Party
    Roger Smith, Director of JUSTICE
    Professor Kate Malleson, Queen Mary, University of London (chair)
    The event is free, but reservation is essential - please reply to events@justice.org.uk
    For more information click here

  • The JUSTICE / Tom Sargant memorial annual lecture
    Are judges now out of their depth?
    Given by Professor Conor Gearty of the Centre for the Study of Human Rights, London School of Economics on Wednesday 17 October 2007. The lecture was hosted by Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer.
    Click here to read the lecture

  • JUSTICE Student Human Rights Network
    Autumn 2007 electronic bulletin published
    We will be holding two student seminars in November - click here for further information (October 2007)

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill for second reading in the House of Commons
    Click here to read the briefing (October 2007)

  • Human Rights Awards 2007
    Call for nominations launched - click here for further information     (October 2007)

  • Further evidence to the House of Common Home Affairs Committee on Counter Terrorism Proposals
    Click here to read JUSTICE's response to the further details of the government's counter-terrorism proposals (September 2007)

  • JUSTICE publishes first Futures paper: 'The Future of Counter-Terrorism and Human Rights'
    A new paper argues that successive UK governments have paid too much attention to public fears over terrorism, at the expense of basic rights. Click here to read the paper and here to read the press release (September 2007)

  • JUSTICE submission to the Joint Committee on Human Rights inquiry into a British Bill of Rights
    Click here to read JUSTICE's letter to the JCHR and here to read the interim report of JUSTICE's project on a Bill of Rights for Britain. The final report will be launched this November (August 2007)

  • JUSTICE calls for fundamental reform of ‘flawed’ system of IPP sentencing
    Click here to read the press release (August 2007)

  • JUSTICE opposes further extension of pre-charge detention
    JUSTICE warned against any further extension of pre-charge detention beyond the current 28 day limit following the Prime Minister's announcement of fresh consultation on the issue. Click here to read the Prime Minister's statement and here to read JUSTICE's press release (July 2007)

  • JUSTICE submission to the House of Common Home Affairs Committee on Counter Terrorism Proposals
    On 7 June the government published a discussion paper containing proposed counter-terrorism measures. Click here to read the government's discussion paper and here to JUSTICE's submissions to the Home Affairs Committee inquiry concerning the proposals (July 2007)

  • Control orders appeals reach House of Lords
    On 5 July, the House of Lords began hearing an appeal against the control order scheme under the Prevention of Terrorism Act 2005. JUSTICE has been granted leave to intervene in the case by way of oral and written arguments, building upon our earlier intervention in the Court of Appeal in July 2006. Click here to read JUSTICE's written submissions in the House of Lords and here to read the press release (July 2007)

  • JUSTICE response to The Governance of Britain green paper
    On 3 July the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, made a statement to Parliament detailing proposals for constitutional reform and the Ministry of Justice published a green paper on these reforms. To read JUSTICE's preliminary response to the green paper click here (July 2007)

  • YL v Birmingham City Council and others
    On 20 June, the House of Lords held by a 3-2 majority that the Human Rights Act does not apply to publicly-funded patients in private care homes. JUSTICE intervened jointly with Liberty and the British Institute of Human Rights to argue for a broad interpretation of the Act. Click here to read the judgment and here to read JUSTICE's press release (June 2007)

  • Al Skeini and others v Secretary of State for Defence
    On 13 June, the House of Lords held by a 4-1 majority that the Human Rights Act applies to all those detained in military custody by UK forces overseas. JUSTICE was part of a coalition of 11 NGOs intervening in the case. Click here to read the judgment and here to read JUSTICE's press release (June 2007)

  • JUSTICE press release welcoming the publication of the Discrimination Law Review
    Click here to read (June 2007)

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Serious Crime Bill for second reading in the House of Commons
    Click here to read (June 2007)

  • Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Bill
    JUSTICE, together with the Prison Reform Trust, Liberty and Inquest have produced a briefing for House of Commons consideration of House of Lords amendments. Click here for the briefing and here for press release (May 2007)

  • JUSTICE submission to the House of Common Home Affairs Committee on a Surveillance Society. Click here to read (April 2007)

  • YL v Birmingham City Council
    On 30 April, the House of Lords will begin hearing an appeal concerning the definition of 'public authority' under the Human Rights Act 1998. JUSTICE are intervening jointly with Liberty and the British Institute of Human Rights to argue for a broad interpretation, to ensure that public authorities do not evade their human rights obligations by outsourcing functions to private companies. Click here to read the interveners' written submissions and here to read the press release (April 2007)

  • JUSTICE welcomes SIAC's rejection of Libyan torture deal
    On 27 April, the Special Immigration Appeals Commission held that the government's memorandum of understanding with the Libyan government was not a sufficient safeguard against torture to satisfy the requirements of Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights. Click here to read SIAC's judgment and here to read the press release (April 2007)

  • JUSTICE has submitted evidence to the House of Lords European Union Committee Sub Committee E (Law and Institutions) inquiry into the European Commission's Proposed Framework Decision on the European Supervision Order in pre-trial procedures between Member States (Council number 12367/06; Commission number COM (2006) 468. To read the evidence click here (April 2007)

  • Al Skeini and others v Secretary of State for Defence
    On 17 April, the House of Lords began hearing an appeal concerning the application of the Human Rights Act 1998 to the actions of UK soldiers in southern Iraq. JUSTICE is part of a coalition of 11 NGOs intervening in the case. Click here to read the coalition's written submissions and here to read the press release (April 2007)

  • JUSTICE response to Draft Supreme Court Rules consultation
    Click here to read JUSTICE's response (April 2007)

  • Policing and Human Rights: Myths, challenges, and realities
    Conference organised by JUSTICE and Sweet & Maxwell
    Thursday 24 May 2007
    Jolly Hotel St Ermin's, 2 Caxton Street, London SW1
    Law Society and Bar Council Accredited: 6 hours CPD
    Standard fee: £350 + VAT
    JUSTICE member fee: £299 + VAT
    To view full programme including a booking form click here

  • JUSTICE opposes Fraud (Trials without a Jury) Bill
    JUSTICE press release: JUSTICE welcomes Lords vote to save jury trial
    JUSTICE briefing for second reading in the House of Lords of the Fraud (Trials without a Jury) Bill. We oppose the Bill in its entirety (March 2007)

  • JUSTICE describes Carlile Report on Definition of Terrorism as 'disappointingly narrow'
    The report of Lord Carlile of Berriew QC on the statutory definition of terrorism recommends some positive changes but does not go far enough, according to JUSTICE - click here to read the full press release, here to read JUSTICE's submissions to Lord Carlile's review in March 2006 and here to read JUSTICE's submissions in the related case of R v F in the Court of Appeal in February 2007 (March 2007)

  • JUSTICE publishes proposals for reform of sentencing
    JUSTICE has published its response to the Home Affairs Select Committee inquiry Towards Effective Sentencing (March 2007)

  • JUSTICE briefing for the House of Lords debate on the renewal of control order legislation. Click here to read the briefing (March 2007)

  • JUSTICE response to DCA consultation on Voting Rights of Convicted Prisoners Detained within the United Kingdom. Click here to read JUSTICE's response (March 2007)

  • A Bill of Rights for Britain? JUSTICE publishes discussion paper (February 2007) and arranges public meeting (29 March 2007)

  • JUSTICE Press Release 28 February 2007
    JUSTICE welcomes the Equalities Review Final Report that was published today. Nonetheless, JUSTICE remains concerned that, although building consensus and other ‘soft’forms of equality promotion are important, the role of the law and the machinery with which to enforce it should not be diminished or undermined. Click here to read the press release (February 2007)

  • JUSTICE briefing for the House of Commons debate on the renewal of control order legislation. Click here to read the briefing (February 2007)

  • JUSTICE briefing for second reading in the House of Lords on the Serious Crime Bill (Part I) (February 2007)

  • R v F
    On 5 February, the Criminal Division of the Court of Appeal heard an interlocutory appeal concerning the definition of terrorism under section 1 of the Terrorism Act 2000. JUSTICE was granted permission to intervene in the case. Click here to read JUSTICE's written submissions (February 2007)

  • JUSTICE calls on Peers to support justice for deaths in custody
    JUSTICE, together with Liberty, the Prison Reform Trust and INQUEST, have produced a joint set of suggested amendments to the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Bill, which is in House of Lords Report stage on 5 February 2007. Deaths caused by gross corporate negligence in the care and treatment of prisoners and detainees are currently excluded from the ambit of the corporate manslaughter offence. We support the inclusion of such deaths within the ambit of the offence, to ensure proper accountability and to encourage safe policies and practices    . Click here to see the press release and here to see the amendments (February 2007)

  • JUSTICE response to Nuffield Council on Bioethics consultation on the ethical issues arising from the forensic use of bioinformation (including DNA evidence). Click here to read JUSTICE's response (January 2007)

  • JUSTICE Student Human Rights Network
    JUSTICE has published the second electronic bulletin for the student network. Click here to read it and here for the main webpage for the network (January 2007)

  • JUSTICE has published its response to the Home Office consultation 'Making Sentencing Clearer - A consultation and report of a review by the Home Secretary, Lord Chancellor and Attorney General.Click here to read the response (January 2007)
  • JUSTICE's amendments to the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Bill for Grand Committee for the House of Lords Grand Committee Click here to read the briefing (December 2006)
  • STANDING COMMITTEE FOR YOUTH JUSTICE Press Release 11 December 2006
    Nearly 3000 children will spend Christmas behind bars, often hundreds of miles away from their home and family. It is time for a new approach to dealing with children in trouble, one which is more effective, less costly and less damaging then the ever increasing use of custody.     JUSTICE is a member of SCYJ. Click here to download the report. Click here to read the press release (December 2006)
  • JUSTICE submission to the Joint Committee on Human Rights on the meaning of 'public authority' under the Human Rights Act. Click here to download (December 2006)
  • JUSTICE response to OCJR consultation Quashing Convictions: Report of a review by the Home Secretary, Lord Chancellor and Attorney General
    Home Office         Click here to download (December 2006)
  • Common Principles - Differing Policies
    Political lawyers in debate
    16 January 2007 at 6pm
    A joint meeting of JUSTICE with
    · The Liberal Democrat Lawyers Association
    · The Society of Conservative Lawyers
    · The Society of Labour Lawyers
    Places are free, but advanced reservation is essential. To book your place email: events@justice.org.uk

    At JUSTICE's formation in 1957, three organisations representing the main political parties nominated three members each to its council and it has continued ever since as an all-party organisation. This event provides an opportunity for lawyer politicians within each major party to discuss the principles that, as lawyers, they have in common while explaining how their parties differ in the policies by which such principles might be implemented.

    JUSTICE will present its own draft manifesto for the rule of law as a statement of what the common values might be.

    Speakers
    · The Rt Hon The Lord Goldsmith QC
    · Dominic Grieve MP
    · Simon Hughes MP
    · Roger Smith
    Chair
    · Baroness Helena Kennedy QC

    To be followed by a drinks reception

    Venue
    The Conference Centre
    Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer
    Northcliffe House, 28 Tudor Street, London EC4Y 0AY
    (at the Junction with Bouverie Street

    JUSTICE is grateful to Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer for hosting this event

  • JUSTICE briefing to the House of Lords on the second reading of the Corporate Manslaughter Bill. Click here to download the briefing (December 2006)

  • The annual JUSTICE/Liberty Human Rights Awards were held on Tuesday 12 December (December 2006)
  • JUSTICE Press Release 11 December 2006
    JUSTICE today urged the government to proceed with caution in removing the prohibition against judges returning to practice. Click here to read the press release. Click here to read the briefing

  • JUSTICE amendments for House of Commons Report Stage on the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Bill. Click here to see the suggested amendments (November 2006)

  • JUSTICE urges MPs to oppose the Fraud (Trials without a Jury) Bill. Click here to read the briefing (November 2006)
  • JUSTICE briefing to the House of Lords on the second reading of the Mental Health Bill. Click here to read the briefing (November 2006)
  • JUSTICE calls on MPs to end wrongful extraditions
    JUSTICE, together with Liberty, the CBI, the Institute of Directors and others, has written to MPs calling upon them to support amendments to the Police and Justice Bill that would provide safeguards against unjust extraditions. For a copy of the letter click here. For the press release click here.
  • Intercept Evidence: Lifting the ban
    A JUSTICE Report
    The UK is the only country in the common law world that prohibits completely the use of intercepted communications as evidence in criminal proceedings. At the same time, evidential difficulties in terrorism cases have been used to justify such exceptional measures as control orders and indefinite detention without trial. JUSTICE has released a report recommending lifting the ban on intercept evidence in the UK. The report includes analysis of the arguments for and against the use of intercept material and includes a comparative study on the use of intercept evidence in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States. Click here for a pdf copy of the report or click here to read the press release (October 2006)
  • JUSTICE written evidence to the House of Commons Home Affairs Committee inquiry into current issues of EU Justice & Home Affairs Click here to read the briefing (October 2006)
  • JUSTICE briefing to the House of Lords for Report stage of the Police and Justice Bill on two areas of concern: inspectorate reform, and the use of prison service custody for children Click here to read the briefing (October 2006)

  • JUSTICE / Tom Sargant memorial annual lecture 2006
    Tuesday 17 October 2006, 6.30pm
    Politics and the Law: Constitutional balance or institutional confusion?
    Professor Jeffrey Jowell QC
    Professor of Law, University College London
    Chair: Lord Steyn
    The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1PL
    Free, but reservation essential: email lectures@justice.org.uk, or call 020 7762 6422

  • Custody and Detention conference: obligations, rights and remedies
    Organised by JUSTICE and Sweet & Maxwell
    Wednesday 6 December 2006
    Jolly Hotel St Ermin's, 2 Caxton Street, London SW1
    Law Society and Bar Council Accredited: 6 hours CPD
    Standard fee: £325 plus VAT (10% discount for JUSTICE members)
    Click here for more information

  • JUSTICE briefing to the House of Commons on the second reading of the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Bill Click here to read the briefing (October 2006)
  • JUSTICE calls for a rebalancing of EU justice and home affairs policies. Click here for the press release. Click here for the open letter to JHA ministers (September 2006)
  • JUSTICE submission to the House of Lords EU Sub-Committee F on the second generation Schengen Information System (SIS II) Click here to read the submission (September 2006)
  • JUSTICE response to the Office for Criminal Justice Reform consultation Convicting Rapists and Protecting Victims - Justice for Victims of Rape Click here to read the response
  • Court of Appeal rules virtual house arrest unlawful. On 1 August, the Court of Appeal upheld the decision of the High Court to quash 6 control orders on the basis that they deprived the defendants of their liberty under Article 5 ECHR. However, the Court also overturned the earlier ruling of Mr Justice Sullivan that the control order legislation was incompatible with the right to a fair hearing under Article 6. JUSTICE was granted permission to intervene in both cases. Click here to read the Article 5 judgment, click here to read the Article 6 judgment, and click here to read JUSTICE's press release (August 2006)
  • The Human Rights Law Conference 2006
    Organised by JUSTICE and Sweet & Maxwell
    8th Annual Conference
    Thursday 26 October 2006
    Savoy Place, London WC2R 0BL
    Law Society and Bar Council Accredited: 6 hours CPD
    Standard fee: £325 plus VAT (10% discount for JUSTICE members)
    Click here for more information

  • JUSTICE welcomes DCA review on Human Rights Act. Click here to read the press release (July 2006)
  • JUSTICE/Liberty joint briefing/amendments in relation to new proposed clauses of the Police and Justice Bill on the use of video links in criminal proceedings. Click here to download the briefing (July 2006)
  • JUSTICE Press Release 6 July 2006
    JUSTICE urges Peers to save 'bright light' of prisons watchdog. Amendments have been tabled to the Police and Justice Bill by, amongst others, the former Chief Inspector of Prisons Lord Ramsbotham, which would ensure that the Inspectorate of Prisons remained outside the super-inspectorate and retained its independence. JUSTICE has asked members of the House of Lords to support these amendments, in a letter and short briefing note. Click here to read the press release, here to read JUSTICE's briefing and here to read JUSTICE's letter (July 2006)
  • JUSTICE urges reform of extradition law
    JUSTICE today asked members of the House of Lords to amend the 2003 Extradition Act, so that people in the UK are better protected from wrongful extradition. Click here for the letter and here for the briefing note (July 2006)

  • JUSTICE warns of dangers in losing HM Prisons Inspectorate
    JUSTICE today asked Peers to support amendments excluding HM Prisons Inspectorate from the merger, proposed in the Police and Justice Bill, of the criminal justice inspectorates. Click here for the letter and here for the briefing note (July 2006)

  • JUSTICE Press Release 28 June 2006
    'Control orders 'a threat to basic fairness'. On 28 June, the High Court quashed 6 control orders on the basis that they breached the appellant's right to liberty under Article 5 ECHR. On 3 July, the Court of Appeal will begin hearing the Secretary of State's appeal against the ruling of Mr Justice Sullivan that control order proceedings breach the right to a fair hearing under Article 6 ECHR. JUSTICE has been granted permission to intervene in the case. Click here to read JUSTICE's press release and click here to read JUSTICE's submissions (June 2006)
  • JUSTICE welcomes debate on 'home-grown' Bill of Rights but identifies several difficulties with the proposals put forward by Conservative leader David Cameron. Click here for a copy of the press release (June 2006)

  • JUSTICE submission on the proposed use of Article 42 on the Treaty of the European Union to the House of Lords EU Select-Committee E Click here to view (June 06)
  • Ron Jones v Saudi Arabia
    On 14 June 2006, the House of Lords ruled that Saudi Arabia could claim immunity from a civil claim of torture in the UK courts. JUSTICE, together with REDRESS, Amnesty International and INTERIGHTS intervened to argue that torture should be recognised as an exception to the doctrine of state immunity.
    Click here to read the judgment of the House of Lords and click here to read the intervenors' reaction.

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Fraud Bill for the second reading in the House of Commons Click here to read (June 2006)
  • Professional values need more protection
    JUSTICE briefing to the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the draft Legal Services Bill and press release (June 2006)

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Police and Justice Bill for the second reading in the House of Lords. Click here to read the briefing. Click here to read the press release (June 2006)
  • JUSTICE responds to Home Office consultation on a code of practice for detention of persons suspected of terrorism offences Click here to read our response (June 2006)
  • JUSTICE evidence on the G6 Home Affairs Ministers meeting in Heiligendamm to the House of Lords EU Sub-Committee F Click here to view the evidence (May 2006)
  • JUSTICE briefing to the European Parliament on the proposed Framework Decision on the transfer of sentenced persons Click here to read the briefing (May 2006)
  • A joint letter from UK human rights NGOs to the Lord Chancellor concerning recent attacks on the Human Rights Act 1998 Click here to read the letter (May 2006)
  • Professor Philippe Sands QC, University College London and Matrix Chambers, gives second JUSTICE International Rule of Law Lecture
    For the full transcript of the lecture, Extraordinary Rendition: complicity and its consequences, given at Middle Temple Hall on Monday 15 May 2006, click here

  • JUSTICE responds to Law Commission consultation paper no. 178, Post-Legislative Scrutiny Click here to read our response (May 2006)
  • Corporate Liability
    Human rights and the modern business

    Organised by JUSTICE and Sweet & Maxwell
    Hosted by Clifford Chance, 10 Upper Bank Street, London E14

    Monday 12 June 2006 * 9.30am - 5pm * 6 hours Law Society/Bar Council CPD

    Standard fee: £325 plus VAT. 10% discount for JUSTICE members.

    A one-day conference discussing all the latest key issues including:
    · International developments - how will recent UN initiatives affect transnational business?
    · The law of bribery - proposed reforms
    · The Corporate Manslaughter Bill - too little too late?
    · Corporations and the Human Rights Act - domestic accountability

    For full details in PDF format, including a booking form, please click here.

    For further enquiries: Call (020) 7393 7980 Email: conferences@sweetandmaxwell.co.uk

    Keynote speaker
    Sir Geoffrey Chandler, Founder-Chair Amnesty International UK Business Group and former Director Shell International

    Speakers
    Jonathan Cooper, Doughty Street Chambers
    Andrew Edgar, Clifford Chance
    Gerry Facenna, Monckton Chambers
    Michael Ford, Old Square Chambers
    Richard Hermer, Doughty Street Chambers
    Nicholas Howen, International Commission of Jurists
    Charles Lawton, Rio Tinto PLC
    Rae Lindsay, Clifford Chance
    Geoffrey Nice QC, 1 Temple Gardens
    Colin Nicholls QC, 3 Raymond Buildings
    Monty Raphael, Peters and Peters
    Graham Rodmell, Transparency International UK

  • JUSTICE Press Release 9 May 2006
    On Wednesday 10 May, the House of Commons will debate amendments to the Police and Justice Bill aimed at safeguarding the rights of people sought for extradition by the United States and other nations. JUSTICE has written to all MPs to outline our concerns about UK-US extradition arrangements and urging them to support the Early Day Motion (EDM 241) and the amendment of the Extradition Act 2003 to satisfy our concerns.
    Click here to see the press release, here to see the letter and here to see the briefing note.

  • JUSTICE today published its response to Law Commission consultation paper no. 177, A New Homicide Act for England and Wales?
    The Commission have proposed a new structure of homicide offences, the three main offences being 'first degree murder', 'second degree murder', and manslaughter. While retaining some concerns about the detail, we are broadly supportive of the Commission's proposals.
    Click here to read our response (May 2006)

  • JUSTICE and the Amnesty EU office have written a joint letter to the EU JHA on the proposal for a Council Framework Decision on certain Procedural Rights in criminal proceedings throughout the European Union
    Click here to read the letter and here for the press release (April 2006)

  • Response to the European Commission's Green Paper on conflicts of jurisdiction and the principle of ne bis in idem in criminal proceedings Click here to read the briefing (April 2006)
  • JUSTICE briefing on the Violent Crime Reduction Bill for the second reading in the House of Lords. Click here to read the briefing (March 2006)
  • Philippe Sands to give second JUSTICE International Rule of Law Lecture
     Professor Philippe Sands QC, of University College, London and Matrix Chambers, will give a lecture entitled Extraordinary Rendition: complicity and its consequences at Middle Temple Hall in London at 6.15pm on Monday 15 May 2006. The lecture is free - to reserve your place please e-mail lectures@justice.org.uk
  • Mary Robinson gives first JUSTICE International Rule of Law Lecture
    For full transcript of lecture, Five years on from 9/11: Time to reassert the rule of law, given at Middle Temple Hall on Monday 20 March 2006, click here
  • Eminent Jurists Panel on Terrorism, Counter-Terrorism and Human Rights to visit London, 24-25 April
    The Eminent Jurists Panel is an independent panel of 8 international judges, lawyers and legal academics established by the International Commission of Jurists to conduct a global inquiry into terrorism, counter-terrorism and human rights. The Panel will be holding public sessions in London on 24-25 April to hear oral evidence on key issues. The Panel is currently inviting written submissions from any interested individual or organisation on the impact on the impact of terrorism and counter-terrorism policies on the protection of human rights in the UK.

    To see the call for submissions click here, to read the brochure containing details of the Panel's work click here, or here to visit the Panel's website.

  • JUSTICE response to Lord Carlile's review of the definition of terrorism in UK law
    Click here to read JUSTICE's submission to the review by the Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Legislation, Lord Carlile of Berriew QC, on the definition of terrorism in UK law, or click here to read the appendix containing definitions of terrorism in international law and comparative common law jurisdictions (March 2006)
  • A joint letter to EU Council experts on minimum safeguards for criminal proceedings throughout the EU Click here to read the letter (March 2006)
  • JUSTICE briefing for the House of Lords consideration of the House of Commons amendments to the Identity Cards Bill Click here to read the briefing (March 2006)

  • Constitutional Law Group event on the Torture case
    On 28 February, Eric Metcalfe, Director of Human Rights Policy at JUSTICE, will speak at a seminar organised by the Constitutional Law Group on the recent House of Lords judgment on the use of torture evidence. For further details click here (February 2006).
  • JUSTICE calls for review of UK-US extradition arrangements
    Click here for a copy of the press release (21 February 2006)

  • JUSTICE briefing for the House of Commons consideration of Lord Amendments to the Terrorism Bill Click here to read the briefing (February 2006)

  • JUSTICE briefing for the House of Commons debate on the renewal of control order legislation Click here to read the briefing (February 2006)
  • JUSTICE submission to the Joint Committee on Human Rights inquiry into control orders. Click here to read the briefing (February 2006)
  • HRLA event on the right to protest
    On 22 February, Sally Ireland, Senior Legal Officer at JUSTICE, will speak at a seminar hosted by the Human Rights Lawyers Association on the right to protest. The event is free for members of the HRLA and JUSTICE (non-members £10).
    For further details click here (February 2006)
  • JUSTICE submission to the Joint Committee on Human Rights inquiry into human trafficking. Click here to read the briefing (January 2006)
  • JUSTICE immensely saddened at the death of Lord Alexander of Weedon QC
    Bob Alexander was an outstanding advocate, an enormous intellect and a generous man. He led a team which transformed JUSTICE in the mid-1990s and was chair of JUSTICE's council for 15 years. He intended his legacy to be our sustained success. We will miss his counsel.
  • JUSTICE briefing for the House of Lords report stage on the Terrorism Bill
    Click here to read the briefing (January 2006)
  • JUSTICE Press Release
    Al Jedda v Secretary of State for Defence
    On 16-18 January, the Court of Appeal heard an appeal concerning whether UN Security Council resolution 1546 can displace the right to liberty under the Human Rights Act 1998. JUSTICE was granted permission to intervene. Click here to read JUSTICE's written case prepared by Shaheed Fatima or click here to read the press release (January 2006)
  • JUSTICE briefing for the House of Lords report stage on the Identity Cards Bill
    Click here to read the briefing (January 2006)

  • JUSTICE Journal Volume 2 Number 2 2005 is published
    The fourth edition of the JUSTICE Journal is now out. Papers include:
    • Changing the rules: the judiciary, human rights and the constitution
      The JUSTICE annual debate
    • Power and accountability: corporate responsibility in the age of human rights
      Jonathan Cooper
    • Old wine in new bottles: human rights, legal aid and the new Europe
      Roger Smith
    Annual subscription £60 / $120 / €120 (10% discount for JUSTICE members)
    Click here for further information (December 2005)

  • JUSTICE Press Release
    JUSTICE welcomes consultation on law of homicide
    Click here to read the press release (20 December 2005)

  • JUSTICE Press Release
    JUSTICE welcomes Select Committee report on corporate manslaughter
    Click here to read the press release (20 December 2005)

  • JUSTICE submission to the House of Commons Home Affairs Committee inquiry into terrorism detention powers
    Click here to read the briefing (December 2005)

  • The annual JUSTICE/Liberty/Law Society Human Rights Awards were held in front of a capacity audience at the Law Society in London's Chancery Lane on Monday 12 December.

  • JUSTICE response to DCA consultation on hearing the relatives of murder and manslaughter victims
    Click here to read the briefing (December 2005)
  • JUSTICE Press Release
    JUSTICE welcomes today's historic 7-0 ruling of the House of Lords which prohibits the British government from relying upon evidence obtained by torture.
    Click here to read JUSTICE's press release (8 December 2005)
  • JUSTICE submission to the House of Commons Home Affairs Committee inquiry into immigration control
    Click here to read the briefing (December 2005)

  • JUSTICE criticises proposed new driving offences
    Click here to read the press release. Click here to read the briefing. (November 2005)

  • JUSTICE Briefing on Equality Bill for second reading in the House of Commons (November 2005)

  • JUSTICE Briefing on Terrorism Bill for second reading in the House of Lords (November 2005)

  • New JUSTICE publication
    ASYLUM SUPPORT
    A practitioners' guide to the EU Reception Directive
    by Anneliese Baldaccini
    "This is a very helpful and practical guide to the important and potentially difficult issues which will arise in the years to come."
    Rabinder Singh QC, Matrix Chambers - from his foreword
    Practitioners advising asylum seekers can no longer afford to be unaware of European Community law. The EU Reception Directive - which imposes minimum standards of support on all member states - is now part of UK law.
    Asylum Support: a practitioners' guide to the EU Reception Directive is a clear and concise examination of the directive, its transposition into UK law and its implications for those advising asylum seekers. Part I gives a basic grounding in European Community law. Part II deals with the directive itself, and the steps which the UK has taken to implement its requirements.
    This guide will:
    · help advisers to interpret the new rules and asylum support regulations
    · assist with challenges where domestic provisions appear to fall short of Community law standards
    Published 3 November 2005
    ISBN 0 907247 41 5
    166 pages
    Price: £17 (£15 to JUSTICE members)
  • JUSTICE / Liberty Human Rights Awards 2005
    2005 has been a difficult year for human rights. But it is in difficult times that human rights are most important. The annual Human Rights Awards aim to recognise and encourage individuals and organisations whose work is dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights of others.
    That dedication is sometimes vilified, often ignored. The Human Rights Awards are your chance to set the record straight. By nominating an individual or organisation, you will not only acknowledge their contribution to the advancement of human rights in the UK, but also ensure that they are an inspiration to others.
    What Awards will be made?
    - Human Rights Lawyer of the Year for solicitors, barristers, legal executives, trainees, pupils, legal academics and judges.
    -     The Human Rights Award for organisations and non-legal individuals.
    - The Peter Duffy Award* for individuals (campaigners, lawyers, activists, academics etc) aged 35 or under.
    *The Peter Duffy Award commemorates the life and achievements of one of the UK's most highly dedicated human rights lawyers. Peter Duffy QC was particularly supportive of younger lawyers, giving freely of his time and skills. An important part of his human rights work was done pro bono for organisations including Liberty and JUSTICE.Nominations close on Tuesday 8 November 2005.
    For full information about the Awards, the judges and how to make a nomination, please click here    .
  • The Freedom of Information Act Conference 2005
    Conference organised by JUSTICE and Sweet & Maxwell
    Wednesday 7 December 2005
    Lessons from the Act's first year - leading experts present the latest thinking on how the ACT is working in practice.
     Click here for a PDF version of the conference flyer, including a booking form
     For further information please contact the Conference Administrator at Sweet & Maxwell on telephone 020 7393 7859 or email conferences@sweetandmaxwell.co.uk
  • JUSTICE Briefing for Committee stage in the House of Lords on the Identity Cards Bill Click here to read the briefing.(November 2005)
  • JUSTICE Press Release
    JUSTICE warns that we lose juries 'at our peril'
    JUSTICE today warned that the Government's plans to abolish the right to jury trial in serious fraud cases may lead to an increase in wrongful convictions.
    Click here to read JUSTICE's press release.(11 November 2005)
  • JUSTICE Press Release (3 November 2005)
    Law Lords unanimously condemn withdrawal of support for asylum seekers
    The Law Lords today held that the withdrawal of all support for asylum seekers, leaving them destitute, was contrary to Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which forbids inhuman and degrading treatment.
    Click here to read the judgement in full and here to read JUSTICE's reaction.
    (3 November 2005)

    Changing The Rules: the judiciary, human rights and the constitution
    'The rules have changed', the Prime Minister famously stated as he announced a package of measures to deal with terrorism in the wake of the London bombings in July 2005. In relation to deportations, he warned the judiciary not to interfere with proposals to negotiate agreements with states that have, until now, been regarded as unable to give guarantees that deportees will not be tortured.

The Prime Minister has kick-started a debate for which JUSTICE had been preparing. The core question is: what are the appropriate relative powers of the judiciary, the executive and the legislature within a democracy that commits itself to international standards of human rights?

JUSTICE has produced a discussion paper as a prelude to a longer examination.

Our objectives are:
· to chart the changing balance of power between the judiciary, executive and legislature
· to identify where problems and uncertainties are located; and
· to articulate a re-balancing of powers within the constitution to meet contemporary pressures.

We intend to publish a final report in the year of JUSTICE's 50th anniversary, 2007.

We welcome comments on questions raised in the discussion paper - please email rsmith@justice.org.uk.

These issues were the subject of JUSTICE / Tom Sargant annual memorial debate held on 18 October 2005.

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Terrorism Bill for second reading in the House of Commons (October 2005)
  • JUSTICE press release: JUSTICE supports cross party early day motion in favour of jury trials (October 2005)
  • Eminent Jurists begin global inquiry into human rights and counter-terrorism. On 19 October, the International Commission of Jurists launched the Eminent Jurists Panel, a panel of 8 respected international jurists, who will hold hearings in different regions across the world over the next 18 months to examine the impact of counter-terrorism measures in different countries on the legal protection of human rights.
    The panel will be chaired by Arthur Chaskalson, the former Chief Justice of the South African Constitutional court and will include Mary Robinson, the former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. The panel is expected to hold hearings in London in early 2006.
    Click here to read the ICJ press release or here to read further details of the Panel's work (20 October 2005)

  • JUSTICE response to Joint Committee on Human Rights inquiry into Counter-Terrorism Policy and Human Rights
    Click here to download a copy (October 2005)

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Violent Crime Reduction Bill for the committee stage in the House of Commons
    Click here to download a copy (October 2005)
  • JUSTICE response to the Home Office consultation on PACE Codes of Practice Click here to download a copy (October 2005)
  • JUSTICE submission to the Home Affairs/Work and Pensions sub-committees on the Draft Corporate Manslaughter Bill
    Click here to download a copy (O    ctober 2005)
  • JUSTICE and Liberty's joint submission to the JCHR inquiry into the UK's compliance with the UN Convention Against Torture
    Read a copy of the joint submission here or click here for a copy of JUSTICE and Liberty's joint submission to the UN Committee against Torture in November 2004 (September 2005)
  • JUSTICE letter to Charles Clarke concerning recent counter-terrorism proposals made in the wake of the London bombings (July 2005)

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Fraud Bill for Committee stage in the House of Lords (July 2005)

  • JUSTICE says Government's restricted protest area goes too far
    JUSTICE briefing on the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (Designated Area) Order 2005 Click here to read the press release (July 2005)

  • Government 'has long way to go' on Draft Mental Health Bill - 13 July 2005
    The Government responded to the Report of the Joint Committee on the Draft Mental Health Bill, indicating that some concessions would be made but continuing to resist some of the Report's major criticisms. The Mental Health Alliance, of which JUSTICE is a member, said that 'there is a long way to go before Government plans can be made into a workable mental health bill'. Click here to read the full press release and click here to read the government response to the Joint Committee.

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Racial and Religious Hatred Bill for the report stage in the House of Commons (July 2005)

  • JUSTICE and ICJ condemn bomb attacks in London - 7 July 2005
    The ICJ and JUSTICE today condemned the bomb attacks that killed over 33 people in central London and injured many more. Click here to view a copy of the full press release.

  • House of Lords approves 'phantom hearings' - 7 July 2005
    By a 3-2 majority, the House of Lords today approved the use of special advocates by the parole board despite the lack of explicit parliamentary approval and the severe impact on fair proceedings. However, two Law Lords, Lords Bingham and Steyn, severely criticised the parole board's decision. Click here to read the judgment in full and here to read JUSTICE's reaction.

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Bill for second reading in the House of Commons (July 2005)

  • UK Presidency of the European Union
    Click here to read the JUSTICE letter to the Prime Minister and here for a copy of the press release (July 2005)

  • JUSTICE response to Home Office consultation on Draft Corporate Manslaughter Bill Click here for a copy of the press release (June 2005)

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Identity Cards Bill for second reading in the House of Commons (June 2005)

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Racial and Religious Hatred Bill for second reading in the House of Commons (June 2005)

  • JUSTICE briefing on the Equality Bill for second reading in the House of Lords (June 2005)

  • JUSTICE welcomes UK report of the Commissioner on Human Rights