HC Deb 06 July 1978 vol 953 cc237-8W
13. Mr. Macfarlane

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received on the documentation involved in the implementation of the Bail Act.

24. Mr. Brooke

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is satisfied that the Bail Act has improved the quality of bail decisions.

25. Mr. Mayhew

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received concerning the operation of the Bail Act; and whether he will make a statement.

Dr. Summerskill

The Bail Act came into force on 17th April and the relevant rules of court were debated in the Standing Committee on Statutory Instruments, &c. on 19th April. Since then we have received three representations about the general working of the Act and the Magistrates' Association has asked to discuss it with our officials. It is too early to assess the effect of the Act.

Mr. John Evans

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is satisfied with the working of the Bail Act.

Dr. Summerskill

I refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave today to a Question by the hon. Member for the City of London and Westminster, South (Mr. Brooke).