§ MR. BRADYasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, If after taking into consideration the decision of the Magistrates at the petty sessions of 1685 Ashford on the 3rd instant, and the committal of a person for two months to prison for an alleged assault on a young girl, he considers the said Justices fit persons to be intrusted with the administration of justice?
MR. BRUCESir, I am bound to say I think the justices committed a grave error in dealing summarily with the accused, instead of sending him for trial to one of the Superior Courts. Very shortly after their decision the Chairman called at the Home Office and informed the Under Secretary that evidence had come before him which satisfied him that the man was innocent, and thereupon he was immediately released. The question as to the fitness of any magistrates is one resting entirely with the Lord Chancellor, and it is not for me to anticipate any opinion which he may form in case any complaint is made to him as to the conduct of these justices.