§ 35. Mr. Michael Fabricant (Lichfield)If she will make a statement on the future of Lichfield magistrates court. [114043]
§ The Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department (Jane Kennedy)I am currently considering the appeal against the proposed closure of Lichfield magistrates court. I expect to announce my decision shortly.
§ Mr. FabricantFor more than 600 years—week in, week out and one way or another—there has been a magistrates court in Lichfield. At present, there is no such court, pending the announcement of the result of the appeal. I have spoken to the Minister, her predecessor and 850 her predecessor's predecessor about this matter. Will she please make a statement soon, saying that the magistrates court in Lichfield will remain open?
§ Jane KennedyI have on previous occasions complimented the hon. Gentleman on his assiduous pursuit of his constituents' interests. However, I cannot confirm precisely when the decision will be made. I want to pay careful attention to all the representations made during the course of the appeal. I will make my decision known on both Lichfield county court and the Lichfield magistrates court at the same time.