§ 28. Mr. Weitzmanasked the Attorney-General when it is proposed to restore the rights of the subject, to trial by jury in civil actions; and whether it is proposed to effect this under Section II of the Administration of Justice (Emergency Provisions) Act, 1939; or how otherwise.
§ The Attorney-GeneralAs I informed the hon. and learned Member for Montgomery (Mr. C. Davies) on 13th March, the prewar, facilities for trial by jury could not at present be restored without grave inconvenience to all concerned; but my Noble Friend is bearing in mind their restoration as soon as conditions permit. My Noble Friend does not consider that it is possible to decide how the restoration will be effected until the occasion arises.
§ Mr. WeitzmanWill consideration be given, first, to the restoration of the full rights of the subject in civil actions, rather than to the limited rights given under the Administration of Justice Act, 1933? Will the possibility be considered of dealing with the manpower problem by limiting the jurors in civil action to seven in number, as is done in criminal cases today?
§ The Attorney-GeneralBoth these considerations will be borne in mind.
§ Mr. Quintin HoggWill the hon. and learned Gentleman also bear in mind the need for compensating jurors better for their loss of time? Will he also consider better treatment for jurors in waiting, who sometimes have to wait a disproportionately long time?
§ The Attorney-GeneralThose matters also are being taken into consideration.
Mr. Hector HuģhesDoes the hon. and learned Gentleman realise that this is an urgent matter, and that there is a deep and widespread demand for the restoration of this fundamental right?
§ The Attorney-GeneralIt is a demand with which, as I have indicated on other occasions, I have the greatest sympathy. The position will be reviewed from time to time, and as soon as it is practicable to restore this right it will be restored.