§ MR. HUTCHINSONasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, Whether he is aware that, on the application of the Halifax Town Council, some additions have just been made to the Bench of that borough; whether he is also aware of the fact that, in those additions, the present Mayor is not included, although his name stood first on the list recommended by the municipal body making the application; and, whether he is aware of the reason why the Mayor was not included, and will state such reason to the House?
MR. ASSHETON CROSSSir, I have nothing to do with the appointment of magistrates. I know some recent appointments have been made to the Halifax Bench; but I do not know on what representations to the Lord Chancellor they were appointed, or why the gentleman in question was omitted. The hon. Gentleman is no doubt aware that the Mayor of Halifax is a magistrate ex-officio for his year of office and the following year.
§ MR. HUTCHINSONgave Notice that, on July 26, he should move—
That an humble Address be presented to Her Majesty, praying that Her commands may be signified to those responsible for the recommendation of persons to be appointed justices of the peace, that consideration of party politics or religious creed should be wholly disregarded in their selection.