§ 30. Mr. Spencerasked the Attorney-General if he is satisfied with present arrangements for training both full-time and part-time members of the judiciary in their judicial functions.
§ The Solicitor-General (Sir Patrick Mayhew)It is thought that a suitable foundation has now been laid for the training of all full-time and part-time judges of the crown court. There is an unmet need for formalised training of those who sit in the civil and family jurisdictions. This is at present under consideration.
§ Mr. SpencerCan my right hon. and learned Friend give us an idea of when the present system will be extended to civil and matrimonial courts?
§ The Solicitor-GeneralThe Judicial Studies Board, which has been in existence for slightly more than four years, has so far concentrated upon the criminal jurisdiction. It is too early to say when my right hon. and noble Friend the Lord Chancellor will extend it to civil and matrimonial matters. The matter is under consideration, but at the moment I cannot be more helpful.