Justices of the Peace

HC Deb 14 February 1995 vol 254 cc623-5W

Mr. McFall

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the political balance among justices of the peace in Dumbarton district; and if he will make a statement.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

The table shows the political affiliations declared at the time of their appointment by the 57 justices of the peace for the Dumbarton commission area:

	Number
Conservative	20
Labour	21
Liberal Democrat	2
Independent	1
SNP	1
No particular views/none declared	12

JPs are appointed by the Secretary of State for Scotland on the basis of nominations by local authorities for ex-efficio appointment of elected members or on the recommendation of local advisory committees. JPs are not paid and are not compelled to declare their political views. The primary consideration in the appointment of a JP is the individual's personal suitability for the office.