Mr. KINGasked the Home Secretary whether the attention of the Government has been called to the position of high sheriffs of counties and to the objection of certain persons to undertake this office; and whether, in view of the character of the duties, he will propose legislation either abolishing the office of high sheriff or removing the grounds of complaint?
§ Mr. McKENNAMy attention has not been called to the subject; but, even if a case could be made for legislation with regard to the office of high sheriff, there is no prospect at present of finding time for it.
Mr. KINGWill the right hon. Gentleman see whether it is not possible to exempt men who are already doing large public duties, like the chairmen of county councils, from these onerous burdens?
§ Mr. McKENNAI do not know. I think that would be taken into account in appointing the sheriffs.
Mr. KINGIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is not now the rule to take, that into account? May I further ask whether the duties of this office are not confined to giving luncheons to judges before the assizes, and then executing their victims after the assizes, and whether these duties are hardly suitable to give to hard-worked county gentlemen at the present time?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Gentleman had better put the question down on the Paper.