§ Mr. BeithTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department to what extent his Department uses political affiliation as a criterion in the selection of justices of the peace for advisory committees; and if he will make a statement. [40863]
§ Mr. HoonThe Lord Chancellor requires that the composition of Advisory Committees should broadly reflect the communities which they serve and should include at least one acknowledged supporter of each of the main political parties. Both magistrate and non-magistrate members of committees are asked to declare their political affiliation when applying for appointments and this, together with age, gender, ethnic origin, place of residence and occupation, is taken into account in the appointment of suitable candidates.