We have reported previously on matters concerning the expansion and maintenance of the prison system. For example, in September 2020 we found that the Department had delivered just 206 new prison places, against a commitment of 10,000 new-for-old places by 2020.22 In March 2021, we reported that the 2019 Spending Review settlement included only £315 million for maintaining the prison estate, against a maintenance backlog valued at nearly £1 billion.23 We have also reported previously on the Department’s efforts to reduce re-offending, which the Department recognises is the best way to tackle crime. In September 2020, we concluded that its efforts were being put at risk by the absence of a cross-government strategy.24 17 Q73; C&AG’s Report, para 3.15 18 C&AG’s Report, para 17 19 Qq73–78 20 Q81 21 Qq74–77, 80 22 Committee of Public Accounts; Improving the prison estate; 15th Report of Session 2019–21, HC 244, 11 September 2020 23 Committee of Public Accounts; Key challenges facing the Ministry of Justice; 52nd Report of Session 2019–21, HC 1190; 24 March 2021 24 Committee of Public Accounts; Improving the prison estate; 15th Report of Session 2019–21, HC 244, 11 September 2020 Reducing the backlog in criminal courts 11 2 Impact on court users Vulnerable and disadvantaged users