Birmingham barristers, in full courtroom attire, are to stage their first walk-out for 300 years in protest at Government plans to cut legal aid for criminal cases.

Bewigged lawyers will protest in legal dress outside Birmingham Crown Court on Monday morning as part of a campaign by some of the country’s top courtroom names.

Leading legal practitioners believe the cuts will mark the end of a world-renowned justice system, taking an already stretched sector past breaking point.

Barristers say they have been left with no choice but to walk out after making concerted attempts to help the Government make savings.

Sarah Forshaw QC, one of Britain’s most senior barristers, said: “For months we have tried to engage in constructive dialogue with the Government, offering solutions that would both save money and preserve the British justice system.

“Having been ignored by Chris Grayling (the Justice Secretary), we feel there is no option available but to make a stand.

“The walk-out has been scheduled for a time where disruption will be kept to a minimum and we are keen to raise awareness of the concerns we have, without seriously damaging the system that we are immensely proud to be a part of.

“This issue is bigger than today. The justice system of this country, which has been the envy of the world for centuries, is at stake.”

Ms Forshaw, head of the South-East circuit, has warned plans to cut £220 million a year from the annual budget of £1 billion for criminal cases, could lead to ‘catastrophic’ miscarriages of justice.

Mr Grayling has defended the proposed cuts, saying they would prevent taxpayers’ money being spent on undeserving cases and introduce greater efficiency.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: "At around £2 billion a year we have one of the most expensive legal aid systems in the world, and it would remain very generous even after reform.

“Latest figures show more than 1,200 barristers judged to be working full time on taxpayer-funded criminal work received £100,000 each in fee income last year, with six barristers receiving more than £500,000 each and £84,000 paid in fee income on average.

“We have engaged constructively and consistently over a period of many months with lawyers — including revising our proposals in response to their comments.

“We agree legal aid is a vital part of our justice system - that's why we have to find efficiencies to ensure it remains sustainable and available to those most in need of a lawyer.

“Agencies involved in the criminal justice system will take steps to minimise any upset court disruption could cause for victims and witnesses involved in trials on Monday.”