LAST MINUTE REPRIEVE FOR ANNAN COURT

12.56.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 6th May 2009

Jim Hume, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, has today welcomed the decision by the Scottish Parliament's Justice Committee not to close Annan Court.

The proposed closures formed part of a review of the court service provision by the Scottish Courts Service and the MSP has been lobbying against the closure in conjunction with local Councillor, Richard Brodie.

Jim Hume said:

"The proposed closure of Annan Court seemed nonsensical especially at a time when the Council has ear marked investment to improve the facilities."

"I am pleased that the Committee voted against the closure which is good news for the town and the surrounding area.

"Justice is best served locally rather than centralising services away from local communities and this is ever more true in rural populations.

Local Councillor, Richard Brodie, added:

"This is a great victory for cross party politics. I would like to thank all MSPs and Councillors who worked together to achieve this success"

ENDS