Swansea University law students receive warm welcome at Ministry of Justice

On Thursday August 29th, Swansea University law students Tahmid Miah and Isabel Francis received a warm welcome at the Ministry of Justice in London, where they spent the day learning more about policy-making in justice, the civil service fast stream, legal aid, and parliamentary aspects of policy-making.

The trip formed part of the ‘Best Contribution by a Team of Students’ prize awarded to the two students at the LawWorks and Attorney General Student Pro Bono awards, which were held in May. Tahmid and Isabel were acknowledged for their commitment to proving pro bono legal advice to the local community. From volunteering over the Summer to giving evidence to The National Assembly for Wales on access to justice issues, the students have contributed over 750 hours of their time to the Swansea Law Clinic.

Peter Farr, Head of Civil Law Policy at the Ministry of Justice, organised and led the activities for the day. These began with an in-depth session on Ministerial aspects of policy-making in justice; including submissions, briefings, freedom of information requests, media interest, correspondence, and lobbying.  

The students also participated in sessions relating to legal aid, civil and family policy, the fast stream entrance to the Ministry of Justice, and Parliamentary aspects of policy-making such as bills, statutory instruments, explanatory memoranda, written statements, oral and written questions, and Westminster Hall debates.

One of the highlights of the day was getting a private tour of the UK Supreme Court.

Speaking about the experience, Isabel said:

“I can’t believe how many opportunities have opened up to us through volunteering at the Law Clinic. Today has been an amazing experience, we have learned so much, everybody at the Ministry of Justice was so welcoming, and it has highlighted how many different career opportunities are available with a law degree”.

Peter Farr, who was part of the judging panel at the Pro Bono Awards said:

“I’ve been really impressed with the students today. Their interest, passion, and the considerate approach they have taken in their work with the law clinic is evident.

“Isabel and Tahmid have really made a difference to the lives of people in their local community. They are excellent students, and it is a tribute to Swansea University for producing students like this, but also a tribute to themselves”.

More information on the Swansea Law Clinic is available via their website.

Ministry of Justice Trip