§
178 Clause 113, page 82, line 7, at end insert—
'(2) In addition and without prejudice to any powers which the Crown Court may possess to order the exclusion of the public from any proceedings a judge of the Crown Court may order that the hearing of a challenge for cause shall be in camera or in chambers.'.
Earl FerrersI beg to move that the House do agree with the Commons in their Amendment No. 178. This amendment was made in response to concerns expressed in your Lordships' House in particular by the noble Lord. Lord Wigoder, and in another place that it should he made clear in the Bill that judges have the power to hear challenges for cause otherwise than in open court. The Government accept that that is a desirable clarification and I hope that your Lordships will agree with this amendment.
§ Moved, that the House do agree with the Commons in their Amendment No. 178.—(Earl Ferrers.)
§ On Question, Motion agreed to.