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Juries: Chronic Illnesses

Asked by Jodie GoslingLabourMinistry of JusticeTabled Answered 11 February 2026UIN 110488

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, whether he has made an assessment of the potential merits of introducing a permanent exemption to Jury service for people suffering from lifelong or degenerative conditions.

Answered by Sarah Sackman

The Government has not made a specific assessment of introducing a permanent exemption for people with lifelong or degenerative conditions. Jury service is an important civic duty, and the Government is committed to ensuring that disability is never a barrier to serving.

People with these conditions who feel unable to undertake jury service may apply to be excused, with each application considered carefully on a case-by-case basis.

Where a person wishes to serve, His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service will make reasonable adjustments to accommodate their needs whenever possible, so they can participate fully at no personal cost.

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