§ 76. Mr. WOMERSLEYasked the Attorney-General if he is aware of the serious congestion in the Admiralty 437 Court; and if he is prepared to take steps to secure the appointment of an additional Judge?
§ The ATTORNEY-GENERALYes, Sir. Representations were made to my right hon. and Noble Friend the Lord Chancellor by an influential committee on this point, and, as a result, a Clause providing for an additional Judge has been incorporated in the Administration of Justice Bill, which has already passed its Third Reading in another place, and which I hope to introduce in this House immediately.
§ 77. Mr. COUPERasked the Attorney-General whether, in appointing an additional Judge for the Admiralty Court, the Government will have regard for the selection of a Judge from among those who have knowledge and experience of the very special nature of the work of the Admiralty Court?
§ The ATTORNEY-GENERALWhen statutory authority for the appointment of an additional Judge for the Probate, Divorce and Admiralty Division has been obtained, the appointment will be made by His Majesty upon the advice of the Lord Chancellor. and I have no doubt that my right hon. and Noble Friend, before tendering that advice, will have regard to all the relevant circumstances.
§ Mr. SCRYMGEOURIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that Chambers of Commerce are specially urging that particular point?
§ The ATTORNEY-GENERALYes, Sir, but, of course, I cannot say what considerations will or will not weigh with my right hon. and Noble Friend. The matter is in his discretion, and I have no doubt he. will give due attention to all proper representations made to him.