HC Deb 13 January 1913 vol 46 cc1681-2
88. Mr. JOYNSON - HICKS

asked whether, owing to the complexity and importance of cases now tried in the County Courts, he will consider whether the time has come to increase the salaries of a certain number of the judges of such Courts to £2,500 per annum, which would also permit the promotion of those judges who most efficiently carried out their duties?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL (Sir Rufus Isaacs)

The proposals of the Government with reference to the County Courts and the judges of those Courts are before the House in the County Courts Bill, which benefits the judges in a substantial degree. It is impossible to say more at present.

89. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked whether in the County Courts, as opposed to the practice in every other civilised Court in the world, whenever the Court of Appeal directs the retrial of a case it is heard again before the same judge in consequence of whose wrongful decision the retrial was ordered; and whether he could see his way to alter this position of affairs, by legislation if necessary?

Sir RUFUS ISAACS

I am not prepared to assent to the view that when upon a point of law retrial of a case has been ordered the same County Court judge should not again hear the case. The matter could be conveniently discussed upon an Amendment to the County Courts Bill when it comes before the House.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether there is any possibility or probability of the County Courts Bill coming before the House?

Sir RUFUS ISAACS

I made every effort when it was before the House even to sacrifice the controversial Clauses to secure its passage.