§ Mr. Arnoldasked the Attorney-General if he has considered taking steps to reduce the length of legal vacations.
The Solicitor-General:There are no formal vacations in either the Crown Court or in the County Courts. Sections 57(4) and 71(4) of the Supreme Court Act 1981, now in force since 1 September, enable non-urgent as well as urgent business to be taken in the High Court and the Court of Appeal during vacation. The Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) has always sat in vacation as necessary. There are, however, difficulties inherent in assembling juries (where required), witnesses and court staff during normal holiday periods. It is not thought that further provision in addition to the above would at present be rewarding.