The planned sentencing of six individuals for a firearms conspiracy was postponed at Harrow Crown Court on Friday because the dock was too hot, with temperatures exceeding 26°C. The delay came as the UK recorded its hottest-ever June day, reaching 36.9°C in Wattisham, Suffolk, amid a prolonged heatwave. A red heat health warning remained in effect for London until 9pm.
Defendants Include Police Killer
The defendants included Faizal Razzaq, the getaway driver in the murder of police constable Sharon Beshenivsky. They were due to be sentenced at the newly refurbished Harrow Crown Court, which reopened earlier this year after a £26 million safety overhaul. Despite having air conditioning, the system could not sufficiently cool the dock area.
Judge Deems Conditions 'Deeply Unfair'
Security staff stated that a fan could not be placed in the dock, and the hearing could not proceed until the temperature dropped below 26°C. Judge Hannah Kinch noted, “The temperature will need to be monitored and if it goes above 26°C the defendants will have to be taken down again. I don’t see how we can have a hearing while we are stopping and starting. I also think it would be deeply unfair to have defendants who are facing serious sentences kept in difficult conditions in the dock.” At midday, the judge confirmed the hearing could not go ahead and adjourned it until October.
Widespread Heatwave Disruption
The heatwave has caused significant disruption across London, forcing hundreds of schools, shops, and offices to close. Multiple train operators urged passengers not to travel due to heat-related railway issues. Several London tourist attractions, including the Cutty Sark, the Young V&A, and part of Hampton Court Palace, closed on Thursday. The Changing of the Guard ceremonies at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle were suspended for the rest of the week due to excessive temperatures.
Impact on Health Services
Health chiefs warned of increased pressure on services, with a rise in life-threatening emergency calls. Several hospitals declared critical incidents; University Hospital Southampton canceled planned operations and outpatient appointments. The heatwave continues to affect daily life, with temperatures expected to remain high.
