§ 9. Mr. GROTRIANasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the number of London police magistrates now serving is two below the maximum fixed by statute; and whether he proposes to advise the increase of the number up to the maximum allowed?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThis matter was very carefully considered by me some time ago, and I have since been in consultation with the Treasury. I hope before long to be in a position to announce the decision reached.
§ Mr. GROTRIANIs my right hon. Friend aware that that maximum was fixed nearly 100 years ago, that the work has increased enormously since, and also that these magistrates cannot, or, at least, do not, appoint deputies, and can only take their holidays by getting other magistrates to do their work?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON- HICKSThe answer to all my hon. and learned Friend's questions is in the affirmative.
§ Captain GARRO-JONESWill the right hon. Gentleman consider, at the same time, whether there might not usefully be fixed an age of compulsory retirement?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI think there is one for those who are appointed at the present time or who have been appointed in recent years.