HC Deb 15 March 1905 vol 143 cc30-1
MR. WEIR

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if his attention has been called to the delay in the trial of cases at the Marylebone and Brompton County Courts; and, if so, will he say what steps, if any, he proposes to take in the matter.

THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL (Sir ROBERT FINLAY, Inverness Burghs)

The business at these two Courts is very heavy, and it is only by great care that the list is kept down. On account of ill-health of the Judge two deputies were appointed last month, and I am informed that there are now practically no arrears, as cases can be entered for trial within one month of the issue of the plaint—a period which cannot be considered unusually long.

MR. WEIR

Then is it not intended to take any steps to deal with this?

SIR ROBERT FINLAY

Yes, two deputies have been appointed.

MR. WEIR

Young inexperienced men.

SIR ROBERT FINLAY

I am told they are thoroughly competent.

MR. WEIR

And I am told the reverse.