§ 34. Dr. Goodson-WickesTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what consultations he has had over the administration of magistrates courts in London. [21926]
§ Mr. Jonathan EvansMy officials are in regular contact with the strategic management body which 20 represents the management interests of all the outer London courts and with the inner London magistrates courts committee on a wide variety of issues.
§ Dr. Goodson-WickesMy hon. Friend will be aware that Merton magistrates court is working very well under the current arrangements for the 20 outer London courts. Will he assure the House that when the matter is reviewed the demands of cash limits will not mean that courts will be amalgamated, thus abolishing the undoubted benefits of local autonomy?
§ Mr. EvansMy hon. Friend will be disappointed to hear me say that it is far too early for me to give a categorical assurance on that matter at this point. He is aware that it is the Government's policy to review the position five years after the establishment of the strategic management body, which was set up in September 1994. My Department has received reports of its operation in the past year and my noble and learned Friend the Lord Chancellor and I are currently considering them.