Statement as barristers strike in Birmingham

Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association outside Birmingham Crown Court on the first of several days of court walkouts by members in a row over legal aid funding. Barristers are expected to stage picket lines outside court, including at the Old Bailey in London and at crown courts in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Leeds and Manchester. The strike action is intended to last for four weeks. Statement read by Richard Atkins QC.