The UK Government commenced a review of the balance of competences in July 2012 and will run until the end of 2014. It seeks to audit what the EU does and how it affects the UK. Over four semesters it has sought evidence on 32 areas of competence, questioning what advantages and disadvantages they bring to the UK. The results of the review have been published over the period as summaries of the evidence received. The Review aims to provide a thorough analysis of what EU membership means for the UK to provide a better understanding of the relationship. It will not make recommendations, but provide a body of evidence for future discussions.
JUSTICE has responded to two calls for evidence, on fundamental rights and police and criminal justice, the second response jointly with Fair Trials International. Our responses have sought to provide an accurate picture of the development of both areas from the perspective of individuals being able to exercise their rights in legal proceedings, and how the EU can improve access to justice through binding legislative measures where the existing international framework is inadequate.
You can read JUSTICE’s responses below. More information about the Review can be accessed here.