§ Mr. Russell Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many persons in Scotland were called for jury service in the last convenient year; and how many actually served.
§ Mr. RossThis information is not readily available, but I estimate that about 12,000 persons served as jurors in 1965. The number cited for service would be considerably larger.
§ Mr. Russell Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that citizens giving jury service in Scotland are inadequately compensated and frequently inconvenienced under the present system; and what proposals he has for reform.
§ Mr. RossFinancial loss allowances and subsistence allowances for jurors were increased in February this year and a further increase would not be justified at present. Jury service inevitably causes some inconvenience, but I am sure that the courts do their best to minimise it.