§ 40. Sir Percy Hurdasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has now considered the memorial for the re-constitution of the Jamaican judiciary; and what steps are to be taken in this matter?
Mr. M. MacDonaldThe memorial was carefully considered together with the Governor's views on the questions raised, and, as a result, my predecessor has informed the Governor that he agrees that it is desirable to revert to the former arrangement whereby the Court of Appeal and the High Court are amalgamated, the judges exercise concurrent jurisdiction in both courts, and the Court of Appeal consists of three judges. Furthermore, in view of the pressure of work in the courts, my predecessor proposed to the Governor that an additional judge should be appointed.
§ Sir P. HurdAre these changes likely to take place now?
Mr. MacDonaldI think that they have to be confirmed by the local legislature. As far as I and my predecessors are concerned, we have taken all necessary action to see that they are put into effect.