HC Deb 16 May 1928 vol 217 cc1043-4
39. Mr. WALTER BAKER

asked the Attorney-General whether he is aware that all persons whose names are in the jurors' book who are of higher degrees than esquires, or are legally entitled to be called esquires, or are bankers or merchants (but not manufacturers), or are occupiers of private dwelling-houses rated or assessed to the Poor Rate of a value of not less than £100 in towns containing according to the last census 20,000 inhabitants or upwards, or on a value of not less than £50 elsewhere, are qualified to serve as special jurors; and whether, in view of the doubt as to who are legally entitled to be called esquires, and the fact that in certain parts of outer London the £50 qualification is largely in operation, he will consider the desirability of a change in the law in this matter?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I have been asked to answer this question. I am aware of the position. I do not see my way to introduce legislation at the present time upon this subject.