Who should decide criminal cases involving offences carrying shorter prison sentences?

The government recently dropped proposals to introduce judge-only trials for certain criminal cases carrying shorter prison sentences.

The proposals aimed to reduce delays in the Crown Court, where a substantial backlog of cases has developed.

Supporters argued that judge-only trials could allow cases to be heard more quickly and reduce pressure on the courts.

Critics argued that jury trials provide public participation in the justice system and an independent check on judicial decision-making.