HC Deb 03 April 1969 vol 781 cc154-5W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will give for the longest convenient period of time the amount of fines outstanding; how these compare with comparable periods for the previous three years; what action is taken by his Department to expedite recovery of fines from those found guilty and sentenced to these penalties; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Elystan Morgan

On 31st December, 1968, the "arrears" in courts in England and Wales outside Inner London amounted to £3,749,625; but this figure includes fines the time for payment of which had not expired. The figures available for previous years are not comparable, since they do not include fines imposed by assizes or quarter sessions. It is for the courts to enforce the payment of fines.