HC Deb 31 May 1962 vol 660 cc1570-1
16. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what consultations he has had with the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs in respect of the administration of justice and magistrates courts within Essex local authorities, including the Essex County Council, affected by the proposed Greated London local government reorganisation.

Mr. R. A. Butler

The White Paper on London Government published last November explained that, when proposals for the administrative structure for local government had been settled, the Government would give attention to such related matters as the arrangements for the administration of justice. I am in consultation with my right hon. Friend, and with other Ministers concerned, on these matters, but I am not yet in a position to make a statement.

Mr. Sorensen

When will the Secretary of State be in a position to make a statement? Will he consider the desirability of making the prospective new Greater London authority coincidental with the Metropolitan Police area to avoid overlapping? Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that there is need for a closer liaison between the local authorities on the one hand and the magistrates' courts on the other?

Mr. Butler

All these points have been discussed by me with my colleagues principally concerned. I will keep in touch with the hon. Gentleman and will make a statement as soon as I can.

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