§ 130. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the reason for the reduction in the age for exemption from jury service from 65 to 60 years of age for both men and women; and if he will reconsider it, in view of the shortage of manpower.
§ Mr. YoungerThe raising of the age for jury service from 60 to 65 was one of the temporary provisions included in the Administration of Justice (Emergency Provisions) Act, 1939, which was brought to an end by an Order in Council of 10th March, 1947. The primary reason for terminating this Act was to permit the restoration of juries in civil actions and there was no power to terminate parts of the Act and retain other parts, but provision was made in the Order in Council by which the age for jury service should not revert to 60 until the 1st January, 1948. To continue the emergency provision beyond that date new legislation would be required, and as my right hon. Friend has previously stated, he can hold out no hope of early legislation on the subject of jury service.
§ 132. Mr. E. Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that the liability to jury service operates unevenly among different sections of the community; and whether he is prepared to introduce legislation to compensate those who serve on juries for loss of time.
§ Mr. YoungerAs my right on. Friend has said in reply to previous Questions, 37W he regrets that he cannot hold out any hope that time can be found for legislation on this subject in the near future.