§ Sir W. Davisonasked the Attorney-General whether, in connection with the Government's decision to supply shorthand writers to judges in October next for the taking down and transcribing the notes of evidence, consideration will also be given to the fact that under the Indictable Offences Act of 1848 evidence or depositions in cases sent from the lower courts for trial at assizes or quarter sessions have to be in longhand; and whether such steps as may be necessary will be taken to allow of the appointment by courts of summary jurisdiction of official shorthand writers to transcribe such evidence or depositions, including the notes in matrimonial and other cases 3323W when notes of evidence are required to be taken for use in case of appeal?
§ The Attorney-GeneralThis question was, as my hon. Friend no doubt appreciates, outside the terms of reference of the Royal Commission whose recommendations led to the decision referred to in the first part of the question. I am passing my hon. Friend's suggestion on to the Secretary of State for Home Affairs for his consideration.