Should the government remove the right to trial by jury?

Some government ministers are backing plans to remove the right to trial by jury for thousands of criminal cases in England and Wales, arguing that the current system allows defendants to delay proceedings for years and contributes to a severe backlog.

Supporters claim that judge-only trials could speed up justice and prevent victims from enduring long waits.

However, critics, including 90% of the Criminal Bar Association, say the move would undermine a core principle of British justice.

Concerns have also been raised about potential miscarriages of justice and reduced diversity among decision-makers.

Do you think the government should remove the right to trial by jury?