HC Deb 06 July 1944 vol 401 cc1292-3
10. Mr. Hynd

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will emphasise the proper relationships and responsibilities of justices of the peace by ceasing to use the term "police courts" and referring to magistrates' courts in all future official communications as recommended by the Magistrates' Association.

Mr. H. Morrison

The use of the term "police courts" has been discontinued by my Department for some time past, except when statutory references make it necessary, and I have already given instructions that the term "magistrates' courts" should be used in all official communications whenever possible. The Departmental Committee on Justices' Clerks also recommend that courts of summary jurisdiction should be so described and, in drawing the attention of Justices and Chief Constables to the recommendations of this Committee, I am taking the opportunity of referring specifically to this recommendation.

Sir Percy Harris

Does that apply to London police courts?

Mr. Morrison

Yes, Sir.

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