§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department whether a person whose knowledge of the English language is limited is normally appointed to serve as a juror if his or her name comes forward by way of the random process of selection of jury; and if he will make a statement.
421W
Mr. John M. TaylorThe summons sent to potential jurors explains that a person may apply for excusal from jury service on the grounds of an insufficient understanding of English. In addition if there is doubt that a person summoned under the Juries Act 1974 would be able to act effectively as a juror on account of an insufficient understanding of English the judge shall determine whether or not he or she should act as a juror. If the judge decides the person cannot act effectively as a juror, the summons shall be discharged.