Shaun Davies MP has called for the Government to consider the introduction of a Long Service Medal for Magistrates.
Speaking in the Commons Chamber on Thursday, 24th April 2024, the recently installed Labour MP for Telford said: "On a recent visit with the Courts Minister, my Honourable and Learned Friend the Member for Finchley and Golders Green (Sarah Sackman), to Shropshire's Justice Centre, I was reminded about the dedication of our Magistrates.
"Can we have a debate in Government time about the importance of Magistrates in the Justice System?
"Since the 12th century, Magistrates have played a critical role in delivering local justice, and now do so as volunteers, many with decades of service.
"Currently, there is not a long service medal award; does the Leader of the House agree that there really ought to be?"
Leader of the House, the Rt. Hon. Lucy Powell MP, replied: "I join my Honourable Friend in thanking all the Magistrates - as he says, they are volunteers, and they are the backbone of our Justice System in this country.
I think the issue he has highlighted is one that would gather a great deal of momentum and support, and I implore him to continue campaigning for it."
Magistrates across the land perform the role out of a sense of public duty, pride in their communities and with no expectation of personal reward.
That said, it is a bit depressing when someone who has been a Magistrate for two or three decades gets a card and a few words of thanks if they are lucky.
It is nice to see Mr Davies at least highlighting the issue, even though I'm sure nothing will come of it.
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