HC Deb 14 December 1933 vol 284 cc545-6
72. Sir J. HASLAM

asked the Attorney-General whether, in view of the difficulties caused to Manchester jurors, who have to leave their businesses and their homes for lengthy periods owing to the congestion caused by cases being repeatedly transferred from the Liverpool to the Manchester assizes, he will make inquiries into the reason for the transferences, with a view of putting an end to the practice?

The SOLICITOR - GENERAL (Sir Donald Somervell)

I regret that during the assizes now proceeding an exceptional burden has been thrown upon the Manchester jurors. I understand that an extra week will be allowed for next Liverpool assizes in the hope of relieving Manchester jurors of Liverpool cases.

Mr. LOGAN

In view of the expense incurred by Liverpool people who, under the present system have to travel to Manchester, is it not possible to make some arrangement for the Liverpool assizes to end at Liverpool?

The SOLICITOR-GENERAL

As the hon. Member will see from the answer, the giving of an extra week at Liverool will, we hope, meet the difficulty referred to in the question.

Mr. RHYS DAVIES

Does the new arrangement meet the protest of the Manchester jurors in this connection? Is the hon. and learned Gentleman aware that the Manchester jurors sent a protest to the judge on account of being kept so long in court?

The SOLICITOR-GENERAL

I think the arrangement referred to in the answer meets the difficulty referred to in the question.