ONE of the key tasks for MPs at the start of a Parliament is to elect the members of Select Committees who scrutinize the government’s policies.

I was pleased to be elected to Parliament’s Justice Select Committee. As someone who worked as a barrister before becoming an MP, I want to draw on all my experience to ask questions and hold the government to account.

Our first session as a committee was evidence-gathering with Justice Secretary Michael Gove. Mr Gove is often seen as a divisive figure – as friends of mine who are teachers will enthusiastically confirm!.

I was pleased he attended the committee early in this Parliament to face questions. I put questions to him first on how we keep justice local if courts close as the court estate is reduced in size and sold off.

I am also concerned about the employment tribunal fees that workers now have to pay to in unfair dismissal or discrimination claims – something that is undoubtedly damaging workers’ ability to seek compensation and get a fair deal in the workplace.

I put to Mr Gove that this policy was affecting access to justice.

I also questioned the Justice Secretary on the government’s proposed replacement of the Human Rights Act. I am concerned that the UK will cease to be a signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights under this government – the only European country currently not a signatory is Belarus, something Mr Gove was previously unaware of.

I have grave concerns about the future of our justice system under this government. The principle that all people should be equal before our justice system, regardless of wealth or status, is one that I hold dear. But cuts to the legal system endanger that equality, and many of this government’s policies will have a negative impact on the very people who need the most protection from the law.

Locally, one group of people who have my sympathies are the former employees of Griffin Place Communications. I am working with our AM Lynne Neagle to ask questions about what has happened, and to support them at this difficult time.

This matter has also led me to contact the Justice Secretary, though in my capacity as a constituency Member of Parliament, seeking answers about the regulation of the company.

Anyone who is struggling as a result of the closure should make an appointment at one of my surgeries and I will do all I can to assist them.