Five senior judges have attacked the government over a succession of laws that they say "fetter their ability" to administer justice.

They also see new laws on sentencing, control orders for terrorist suspects and public inquires as an attempt by the executive to marginalise their role.

Other senior legal figures have also expressed criticism, including former master of the rolls Lord Donaldson.

Meanwhile, new guidance from the Sentencing Guidelines Council, headed by lord chief justice Lord Woolf, means that criminals including burglars and thieves will serve less time in prison.

The new guidelines urge courts to cut jail terms by 15 per cent.

And the Mirror reports that under Labour proposals victims will be given lawyers to allow them a voice in court for the first time.

Advocates will be appointed free on legal aid to those who have suffered in murder, rape or violent assault cases.