LEGAL MATTERS: Parties Urged to Defend Human Rights and the Rule of Law

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Legal bodies and consumers' groups have called on all political parties to defend human rights and the rule of law.

A coalition of eight organisations have drawn up a 'Manifesto for Justice' which also insists everyone should be able to win access to justice through systems such as legal aid.

Director of the Legal Action Group, Alison Hannah, said: 'Over the last few years we have seen too much rushed legislation leading to bad laws, even where fundamental principles of the constitution and justice are affected.

'We want to see a government that thinks through the implications of change before implementing it and values dignity, respect and fairness for all …