§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the total amount of unpaid fines; and whether delays in their enforcement are being occasioned by the lack of staff in magistrates' courts.
§ Mr. John PattenThe total amount of fines and fees outstanding at magistrates' courts in England and Wales at 31 December 1987 was £84,660,000. Part of this sum consists of fines in respect of which the time allowed for payment had not expired. We are not aware of any general shortage of fine enforcement staff. Applications for grant on the costs of additional staff may be made if a need is perceived: such applications are considered on their merits, having regard to total available provision.