MP criticises 'short' courts closure consultation

A north Wales MP has criticised a consultation on proposals to close courts as "obscenely short".

The Ministry of Justice proposes closing Denbigh Magistrates Court in Denbighshire, as well as courts in Flint, Flintshire, Llangefni on Anglesey and Pwllheli in Gwynedd.

The proposals are part of a UK cost-cutting exercise and a consultation, launched in June, ends on 15 September.

Chris Ruane, Vale of Clwyd MP, urged people to air their views.

The Ministry of Justice's plans include the closure of 18 of Wales' magistrate and county courts.

Mr Ruane said: "Unfortunately the timetable for consultation was obscenely short and this was raised with the minister by many MPs of different parties.

"Most of it took place over August which for most people is the holiday period and they might not have had time to read through the documents related to these proposals.

"The closure of Denbigh Magistrates and Rhyl County Court would have a huge impact on the area and I would urge everyone to take the opportunity to add their opinions to the debate."