§ 33. Mr. Marloweasked the Attorney-General whether in view of the heavy calendars at the courts of assize and the congested lists in the High Court in London, it is proposed to introduce legislation to enable an additional number of High Court judges to be appointed.
§ The Attorney-GeneralMy hon. and learned Friend will recollect that the maximum number of puisne judges who may be appointed to the High Court was increased by six in 1950, by the High Court and County Court Judges Act of that year. Not all the judges authorised by that Act have yet been appointed, and my noble and learned Friend the Lord Chancellor, while fully appreciating the seriousness of the situation, does not consider that it calls for the introduction of further legislation at present.
§ Mr. MarloweCan my hon. and learned Friend say whether there is any 1388 intention to fill the vacancies in view of the fact that many cases are now awaiting trial which were set down over a year ago, and that it is unfair to litigants to keep them waiting all this time?
§ The Attorney-GeneralAll I can say in regard to that question is that my noble and learned Friend is in constant touch with the Lord Chief Justice on the desirability of further appointments.
§ Mr. Hylton-FosterWould my hon. and learned Friend, in the context, hasten up the review of the way in which business at quarter sessions in the country is now organised, on the ground that those courts can give considerable relief, and more cheaply, to the burden on the assizes? As at present organised, they are constantly groaning and creaking under the burden of their increased criminal business.
§ The Attorney-GeneralI will see that that suggestion is brought to the attention of the proper quarters.