§ 8. Mr. McKayasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that Territorials are exempt from service as jurymen when on part-time duties but Royal Naval Reserve officers and men are still being called to sit as jurymen; and if, in his review of the need for legislation regarding jury service, he will take into account the desirability of enabling Royal Naval Reserve personnel also to be exempt from jury service.
§ Mr. Fletcher-CookeMy right hon. Friend is aware of the position and has noted it for consideration.
§ Mr. McKayWill the Minister tell the House what his attitude is on this matter? It seems somewhat extraordinary that there should be this discrimination against one section of the Forces.
§ Mr. Fletcher-CookeWe recognise that there is an anomaly here. We do not think that it leads to hardship in practice in view of the fact that persons charged with summoning a jury have a discretion to excuse anyone so summoned for good reason. The persons whom the hon. Gentleman has in mind usually have a good reason which they could substantiate.