HC Deb 09 November 1998 vol 319 cc4-5W
Mr. Gamier

To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department what was the cost to his Department of the review of the organisation and management of civil enforcement agents from its inception until the publication of his Department's considered response; and what plans he has(a) to conduct further reviews and (b) to introduce revised policies with regard to civil enforcement agents. [58154]

Mr. Hoon

The Review was established in February 1992 and was concluded in April 1996. The work was undertaken by salaried officials and the cost was met from the Department's general running costs.

  1. (a) On 25 March 1998, Official Report, columns 141–42, I announced the terms of reference and timetable for the Review of the Enforcement of Civil Court Judgments. This will include a review of the law governing the activities of bailiffs; and its second phase, commencing in July 2000, will include consideration of the type of agent or form of agency which should be responsible for carrying out enforcement.
  2. (b) Changes to the Distress for Rent Rules 1988 governing the bailiff certification procedure are due to come into force next Spring.

The transfer of responsibilities for the enforcement of warrants from the police to the Magistrates' Courts Committees will take place when a suitable legislative opportunity arises. The Committees will be empowered to authorise companies and firms which will in turn issue employees with written authority to execute warrants.