§ 33. Mr. Greg Knightasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is satisfied with the speed at which justice is done in the magistrates' courts.
§ Mr. MellorThe speed. with which cases are dealt with in the magistrates' courts varies from place to place and depends on a number of factors, including the practices of prosecution and defence. We believe that there is room for improvement within the resources available. My right hon. and learned Friend has recently issued a circular to courts urging on them a number of measures which can reduce 249W unnecessary waiting time, and the Prosecution of Offences Bill contains provisions enabling time limits to be imposed on criminal proceedings.