HC Deb 08 November 1934 vol 293 cc1248-9
6. Mr. RHYS DAVIES

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the fact that the terms of reference of the Departmental Committee on Social Services connected with Courts of Summary Jurisdiction include an inquiry into the application of conciliation methods to matrimonial disputes, he will consider the appointment on the committee of a married woman with practical knowledge of the work of the courts in matrimonial cases?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir John Gilmour)

The subject which the Summary Courts (Social Services) Committee has been asked to consider is mainly an administrative one, namely, to review the existing organisation of the probation service, and in selecting the members I gave special attention to their qualifications for this task. As magistrates when dealing with applications for separation orders frequently ask their probation officers in suitable cases to see the parties and endeavour to promote a reconciliation, this type of social service was specified among others in the terms of reference. The committee already includes persons with practical knowledge of this work and I regret that I can find no sufficient reason for adding to its numbers.

Mr. HOLFORD KNIGHT

Will my right hon. Friend reconsider this matter, in order to get the advantage of the presence of a married woman?

Sir J. GILMOUR

No, sir, I think that is unnecessary. The committee will, no doubt, take evidence from all sorts of people.

Mr. KNIGHT

Does not my right hon. Friend appreciate that in the sifting of the evidence given before the committee it would be an advantage to have the assistance of a married woman?

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