HL Deb 19 May 1970 vol 310 cc1021-2

[No. 38]

Clause 33, page 25, line 21, leave out from "and" to "then" in line 22, and insert "no part of the land is situated in Greater London or the county palatine of Lancaster."

THE LORD CHANCELLOR

My Lords, I beg to move that this House doth agree with the Commons in their Amendment No. 38. Clause 33 provides that proceedings for the possession of a mortgaged dwellinghouse situated outside Greater London shall be brought only in the county court if the value of the property is within the ordinary county court jurisdiction prescribed by Section 48 of the County Courts Act 1959. In relation to such property in Greater London there will be concurrent jurisdiction in the county court and the High Court. The distinction between Greater London and other places seems to be justified because of conditions in Greater London. The circumstances which lead to special treatment being given to property in Greater London are similar to those obtaining in Lancashire and particularly the southern part of the county, especially Liverpool and Manchester. It is considered that the convenience of litigants will be served by placing Lancashire on the same footing as Greater London in this respect.

Moved, That this House doth agree with the Commons in the said Amendment.—(The Lord Chancellor.)

VISCOUNT COLVILLE OF CULROSS

Regional government for the law, my Lords.

On Question, Motion agreed to.