HC Deb 23 December 1937 vol 330 cc2134-5
12. Sir A. Wilson

asked the Home Secretary when he proposes to issue Home Office circulars to magistrates so far as still in force in the form of a single consolidated code of guidance for magistrates?

Sir S. Hoare

Many of these circulars are now obsolete and others may become obsolete as the result of proposed alterations in the treatment of offenders which are now under consideration. If effect is given to these proposals in new legislation an explanatory circular will clearly be required and should go far to meet the object which my hon. Friend has in view.

Sir A. Wilson

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the great majority of the circulars are, in fact, out of print at the present moment, and that it is quite impossible for justices either to buy them or to be aware of the contents, not only in regard to the treatment of matters dealt with under legislation, but in regard to the actual legislation itself?

Sir S. Hoare

I will keep in mind what my hon. Friend has said.

Mr. Muff

Will the right hon. Gentleman not overlook sending these circulars to stipendiary magistrates, who need them badly sometimes?