Barristers to be balloted on possible walkouts in row over legal aid rates

More than 2,400 barristers in England and Wales to be balloted amid warnings of crisis in justice system

Barristers are to be balloted this weekend on escalating industrial action over legal aid rates as figures reveal the number of crown court cases adjourned because of a shortage of lawyers has increased nearly fivefold over the decade.

The Criminal Bar Association (CBA) is balloting more than 2,400 criminal barristers in England and Wales on options for action, including refusing new defence instructions and possible walkouts. A vote for further action is likely to increase the backlog of 58,271 cases in the crown courts.