§ Mr. Tom ClarkeTo ask the Prime Minister if she will outline the division of responsibilities for administration of magistrates courts in England and Wales between different Government Departments.
§ The Prime MinisterResponsibility for the magistrates courts service is shared between the Home Secretary and the Lord Chancellor. The balance of these responsibilities is defined in the Justices of the Peace Act 1979. Broadly, the Home Secretary has responsibility for matters relating to the staffing and administration of the courts. The Lord Chancellor is responsible for the appointment, training and conduct of magistrates.