HC Deb 12 March 1946 vol 420 cc941-2
74. Mr. Balfour

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland who selects the members of the committees which act as advisers to the lord lieutenant of the county on the appointment of justices of the peace; and who are the present members of the advisory committees for the counties of Stirling, Banff and Argyll.

Mr. Westwood

The members of the advisory committees referred to are appointed by the Lord Chancellor, in accordance with the recommendation of the Royal Commission of 1911, to assist him, personally and confidentially, on certain matters in relation to the selection of justices of the peace. It has for some years past been the practice not to make any public announcement either of the names or proceedings of such committees. My Noble Friend the Lord Chancellor is reluctant to alter this practice until the matter has been considered by the Royal Commission which will shortly be set up.