§ 72. Dr. MORRIS-JONESasked the Solicitor-General whether any steps are contemplated to review the number and 912 composition of advisory committees in the counties, county boroughs, and municipal boroughs of England and Wales?
§ The SOLICITOR-GENERAL (Sir James Melville)Advisory committees for the appointment of justices of the peace are being reconstituted and reappointed for fixed terms of office. Provision is made for the automatic retirement of half the members of the committees every three years. The work is being carried out as expeditiously as possible, having regard to the inquiries which must be made as to the suitability of existing members, and of persons recommended for appointment and also having regard to the need for reviewing the composition of committees already reconstituted, at the end of their terms of office.
§ Dr. MORRIS-JONESWill the hon. and learned Gentleman make representations to the Department for which he answers in this House, that there is very considerable dissatisfaction in the country generally with regard to the constitution of these advisory committees, and will he take it up as an urgent matter?
§ The SOLICITOR-GENERALI should like to have notice of the latter question. With regard to the former, I am not aware of any dissatisfaction in the country generally, but, if such dissatisfaction exists, and if it is aptly communicated, steps will be considered in reference to it.