§ Mr. WoodTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if the diploma in magisterial law is sufficient to qualify the holder of act as clerk to a magistrates court; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaddingtonYes. I am not persuaded that there is any need to insist that all clerks are professionally qualified as barristers or solicitors. More are not. The diploma course is, however, being improved and given a stronger practical element. At the same time the Home Office will continue to support members of the courts service wishing to qualify as barristers or solicitors, recognising the need to ensure a good supply of candidates for its senior posts.