§ 31. Mr. Chris Pond (Gravesham)What representations he has received concerning the proposed closure of Gravesend magistrates court. [118157]
§ The Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department (Jane Kennedy)I have received 23 representations from Members, justices of the peace and other local interested parties, following Kent magistrates courts committee's determination to close Gravesend magistrates court.
§ Mr. PondI thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Virtually all the responses to consultation opposed closure of Gravesend magistrates court. Among those who responded, Kent police has estimated that it will face additional costs of around £30,000 a year, not including prisoner conveyance. Will my hon. Friend join me in thanking Elizabeth Brice, the former chairwoman of Gravesham's magistrates bench, for her 32 years of service, following her decision to stand down as a result of the decision to close? Can my hon. Friend assure my constituents that she, unlike Kent magistrates courts committee, will give careful consideration to the views expressed by the local community?
§ Jane KennedyI am more than happy to associate myself with my hon. Friend's comments on the retirement of the former chairwoman of the Gravesham bench. Kent magistrates courts committee is responsible under statute for the efficient and effective running of the courts in its area. The Lord Chancellor's responsibility is limited to that of an appellate court in any dispute between the MCC and its paying authority over a proposed court closure. I shall pay careful attention to all the representations made during the appeal, and I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for his vigorous representations, although it is too early to say how successful he has been.