HC Deb 24 May 1972 vol 837 cc417-8W
Mr. Gwynoro Jones

asked the Attorney-General if he will list the provisions under which members of the public may object to the continuance of a justice of the peace in office; the manner in which objection should be made; and to whom it must be made.

The Attorney-General

There are no specific or published directions in accord- ance with which members of the public may object to the continuance of a justice of the peace in office. Any Member of the public may make representations to the Lord Chancellor regarding the conduct of a justice of the peace when sitting judicially if it is suggested that he has acted unlawfully or with bias, and in such cases my noble Friend is always ready to make such inquiries and to take such action as the nature of the case may demand.

Mr. Gwynoro Jones

asked the Attorney-General what oath of office or other declaration magistrates are required to make on taking office.

The Attorney-General

A justice of the peace, before acting as a magistrate, is required by Statute to take the oath of allegiance to the Crown and the judicial oath todo right to all manner of people after the laws and usages of the realm without fear or favour, affection or ill will.

Mr. Gwynoro Jones

asked the Attorney-General if he will list the statutory provisions relating to the offences for which justices of the peace may be removed from office.

The Attorney-General

There are no statutory provisions under which a justice of the peace must or may be removed from office by reason of the commission by him of an offence, but my noble Friend has power to remove a magistrate's name from the commission or to direct him not to sit judicially for a specified period for any conduct unbecoming a magistrate or likely to cast doubts on his impartiality.