§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Attorney-General what is the number, nature and relevant category of United Kingdom courts which have referred cases brought to them in respect of section 47 of the Shops Act 1950 to the European Court for an opinion; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe following courts in the United Kingdom have referred questions concerning section 47 of the Shops Act 1950 for preliminary rulings by the European Court of Justice in the course of criminal proceedings:
- Woodbridge magistrates court
- Mansfield magistrates court
- Cwmbran magistrates court
- Wakefield magistrates court
- The Crown court at Shrewsbury
- Londonderry magistrates court
The Crown court at Bodmin has stayed proceedings before it in an appeal in a criminal matter in order to make such a reference to the European Court, but notice of registration of that reference has not been received from the court.
132WThe Government have decided to submit observations in the proceedings before the European Court in these cases. Written observations have so far been submitted in five cases.