Small Claims Court

HC Deb 24 January 1994 vol 236 c4W

Mr. Nigel Jones

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what plans he has to reform the small claims court.

Mr. John M. Taylor

Significant changes were made to procedures in this forum in October 1992, including an increased responsibility for the judge to assist unrepresented parties in putting their case and provision for litigants to be assisted by lay representatives.

Public consultation has recently taken place on proposals for the automatic reference of unliquidated claims falling below the small claims limit into this forum, and for a new procedure for small personal injury claims. My Department is currently analysing the response to his consultation.

In the light of these changes, the Lord Chancellor does not currently have any intention of "reforming" the small claims arbitration procedure in any more extensive way, although he has been open about his intention to keep the small claims limit under review and to raise it in due course.