HC Deb 21 November 1957 vol 578 c536
29. Mr. Hyde

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department in how many prisons visiting magistrates, when discharging their official duties, are accompanied by prison clerical officers.

Mr. R. A. Butler

In 66 out of 77 cases the clerk to the visiting committee or board of visitors is an officer of the Department.

Mr. Hyde

Would not my right hon. Friend agree that where a visiting magistrate has no legal qualifications it is desirable that he should be accompanied by a solicitor, clerk of the peace or someone who can exercise an independent official opinion?

Mr. Butler

Yes, Sir, in general. I do.