§ 30. Mr. R. C. Morrisonasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to recent comments made by the Lord Chief Justice, supported by Mr. Justice du Parcq and Mr. Justice Atkinson, on the frequent mistakes made by benches of lay magistrates when dealing with cases under the Factory Acts; and whether he proposes to take any action?
§ Sir S. HoareYes, Sir. I am aware that the Divisional Court has, on more than one occasion recently, commented on the mistakes which have been made by magistrates as to the meaning and application of the provisions of the Factory Act relating to the fencing of machinery. These comments have received wide publicity and the new Factories Act should assist in clarifying the law on the subject. In the circumstances, I do not think any action on my part is called for; but if difficulties continue to arise I will consider whether I can help magistrates by arranging for a note of the legal decisions to be prepared and circulated.