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Story summary
- The Free Speech Union warns that abolishing jury trials could threaten freedom of speech and justice.
- Justice Secretary David Lammy argues reform is needed to address a backlog of over 80,000 cases.
- Critics, including Nigel Farage (Reform UK leader), say the plan undermines citizens' rights and concentrates judicial power.
- Legal studies show jury acquittals rise in free-speech cases, with 75% of defendants acquitted recently.
- The proposal faces opposition in Parliament.
