HC Deb 06 March 1930 vol 236 cc625-6
20. Lieut.-Colonel RUGGLES - BRISE

asked the Home Secretary if he will consider making an amendment to the Juries Acts, 1825 to 1922, extending the exemptions from jury service so as to include elected representatives serving on borough, county, or district councils?

23. Major-General Sir ALFRED KNOX

asked the Home Secretary whether he will consider the possibility of freeing from jury service elected representatives of the people serving as borough, county, or district councillors?

Mr. CLYNES

I do not see my way to propose legislation for extending the exemptions from jury service.

Lieut.-Colonel RUGGLES-BRISE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very strong feeling on the part of those who serve on local authorities that some recompense should be given to them in this respect for the time and service which they give to local government?

Mr. STRAUSS

Can the right hon. Gentleman give us some reason why this exemption should not be afforded to these people?

Mr. CLYNES

The reply can best be given in tabular form, and with the hon. Member's permission I will circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the reply:

Mr. CLYNES

At present, they are exempt from serving upon county juries. I can only say that at present I am unable to propose any other relief.