HC Deb 26 November 1957 vol 578 cc105-6W
Sir I. Clark Hutchison

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has considered the use of juries in civil actions in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maclay

Yes. My right hon. and learned Friend the Lord Advocate and I have decided in the light of the views expressed from time to time in various quarters that an inquiry on this matter is desirable, and I have appointed a committee with the following terms of reference: To consider (1) whether, and if so to what extent, the existing right to jury trial in civil actions in Scotland should be abolished or limited; (2) whether, in the light of their conclusions under (1), any change should be made in the jurisdiction or procedure of the Court of Session and the Sheriff Courts in such actions, and any steps should be taken to expedite the hearing of such actions and to reduce the expense thereof; and to report.

Lord Strachan has accepted the Chairmanship, and the other members are:

  • Dr. May D. Baird.
  • D. A. Foulis, Esq., D.S.O., O.B.E., D.L.
  • Lord Provost William Hughes, C.B.E.
  • S. G. Kermack Esq., C.B.E.
  • H. R. Leslie, Esq., M.B.E., T.D., Q.C.
  • D. G. McGregor, Esq., W.S.
  • J. Forsyth Maillie, Esq.
  • P. Maxwell, Esq.
  • T. B. Meikle, Esq., O.B.E.

I am greatly indebted to the Chairman and members of the Committee for agreeing to serve.