§ 1. Mr. Willisasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the average time taken to bring a legally-aided case for appeal from the Scottish courts to the House of Lords; and what is the average time taken for a decision in such cases.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Michael Noble)On average, nine-and-a-half months and eight weeks, respectively, but actual times vary widely.
§ Mr. WillisDoes not the right hon. Gentleman regard this as scandalous? Is he aware that the overall average length of time between cases leaving the Court of Session and being heard in the House of Lords is 10½ months and that recently it has been between three and four months after a case has been heard before a decision has been given? Will the Secretary of State take steps to try to speed up this process? This is far too long.
§ Mr. NobleWith regard to the last part of the hon. Member's supplementary question, the longest period which occurred in a recent case was just over three months, but the average, as I have said, is eight weeks.
§ Mr. WillisThat is too long.
§ Mr. NobleThat may be the hon. Member's feeling, but he will, I think, agree that it is not for me to comment on the conduct of business in another place. The length of time taken in getting these cases to the House of 1256 Lords is not unreasonable in view of the great deal of work which has to be done.
§ Mr. D. C. AndersonCan my right hon. Friend say how many cases have been brought since the scheme began and what the total cost so far has been?
§ Mr. WoodburnWould not a great deal of time in the House of Lords be saved if Scots people would accept the decisions of their own courts and not bring cases to the House of Lords unless they are matters which concern the whole of Britain?
§ Mr. NobleI do not think that the House would like me to comment on that suggestion. Scotsmen should avail themselves of whatever rights they have if they so wish.