Defendants who will likely get a sentence of three years or less will no longer get a jury trial, the justice secretary has announced.

David Lammy also said defendants will no longer be able to choose a jury trial.

The most serious cases, such as for rape, murder and manslaughter, will still be heard by a jury.

A new “bench division” of the crown court system will be created, where a judge will hear either-way offences, such as assault on an emergency worker or theft of food, that could currently be heard by a magistrate or in a crown court.

Magistrates will also be given increased powers to sentence criminals to 18 months, from a current 12 months, and this could be extended to 24 months, if necessary.

Mr Lammy said the reforms are “bold” and jury trials will continue to be the cornerstone of the justice system.

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