§ Mr. Ian TaylorTo ask the Attorney-General (1) if he will increase the levels of compensation paid for loss of earnings to those on jury service;
(2) what plans he has to increase the level of compensation paid for loss of earnings to self-employed people on jury service.
§ The Solicitor-GeneralThe financial loss allowance, which may be paid to cover loss of earnings, was increased by a little less than nine per cent. on 3 July last.
Where the period over which earnings or benefit are lost or additional expense is incurred is not more than four hours in any day, the maximum sum now payable is £16.15; where the period is more than four hours, the sum is £32.35; and where a juror has served on more than 10 days, for each day over the tenth the sum may exceed that specified but shall not exceed £64.70. These limits are reviewed annually in accordance with Treasury guidelines. All such sums are tax free. No distinction is made between those who are self-employed and others.