§ Mr. Clinton Davisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) in how many cases in magistrates' courts in England and Wales where a prisoner was remanded in custody for reports, and such reports were completed prior to the date fixed for the hearing, the court has advanced the hearing date;
(2) in how many cases in magistrates' courts in the Greater London area where a prisoner was remanded in custody for reports, and such reports were completed prior to the date fixed for the hearing, the court has advanced the hearing date;
(3) if he will make a statement as to the implementation of the circular issued by his Department in May 1971 indicating that governors and medical officers of prisons or remand centres were to inform the clerk of the court, by whom a prisoner has been remanded for reports, as soon as the report in question has been completed.
§ Mr. CarlisleDuring the month following the issue of the circular the date of hearing was advanced in 29 cases at magistrates' courts in England and Wales, eight of which involved persons appearing in courts in the Greater London area. The effect of these arrangements is under review and I will write to the hon. Member when this has been completed.