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This Library Note provides background reading in advance of the second reading in the House of Lords of the Crime and Courts Bill on 28 May 2012. The Bill is wide-ranging in scope. Part 1 provides for the creation of a National Crime Agency to combat organised crime. Part 2 contains various provisions on the courts and tribunals system, including reform of judicial appointments, and for broadcasting court proceedings. Part 3 contains provisions with regard to immigration and border control, drug driving, and community sentencing.

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