§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will publish a charter for magistrates to encourage applications to the bench from the widest possible cross section of the public.
Mr. John M. TaylorNo. Steps are already taken through national and local initiatives such as press notices and articles, posters and leaflets in public places, and contact with employers and other organisations, to reach out to people of all backgrounds so that they are aware that it is open to anyone eligible to apply for appointment. Last year 2,062 appointments were made by the Lord Chancellor and the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.