§ 42. Mr. Whitakerasked the Attorney-General whether he will take steps to arrange a course of basic penological training for those appointed to higher judicial appointments.
§ The Attorney-GeneralMy noble friend the Lord Chancellor, in consultation with the Lord Chief Justice, has been considering the question of making available to all those who are newly appointed to judicial office a course of 1342 lectures and discussions on sentencing and the treatment of offenders. The Lord Chancellor hopes to be in a position to introduce this scheme very shortly.
§ Mr. Hector HughesOn a point of Order. Is not this Question out of order as being an indirect attack on both branches of the legal profession?
§ Mr. SpeakerThe hon. and learned Gentleman is entitled to his opinion, but the Question is not out of order.
§ Mr. WhitakerIf such training is necessary for new magistrates, is it not more necessary for new High Court judges who, although eminent lawyers, never spent their careers near a criminal case?
§ The Attorney-GeneralSuch judges will be entitled, and indeed will be invited, to join these courses, which will begin, we hope, early in the coming year.