Conservative MP for Burton-on-Trent Andrew Griffiths led a debate in Westminster Hall on 27 July 2010 following proposals to close the town's county court as part of modernisation plans put forward by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ).

The MoJ has announced that 103 magistrates' and 54 county courts may be closed, due to ministers claiming they are "underused".

Closing the courts will save the government at least £15m a year in running costs, plus an extra £22m in maintaining the buildings. The courts earmarked for closure make up 30% of the 540 in England and Wales.

County Courts deal with most cases brought under civil law. These include divorces and family disputes, business cases, housing issues, accident claims and small claims.