HC Deb 16 December 1996 vol 287 cc464-5W
39. Mr. Thurnham

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will make a statement about progress with the PFI for new magistrates courts buildings. [7637]

Mr. Streeter

The pathfinder PFI project to provide managed court accommodation to meet the requirements of the Hereford and Worcester magistrates courts committee is proceeding on programme. Expressions of interest from prospective providers are at present being evaluated. A letter has been sent to all local authorities and MCCs informing them of my decision to allow a further four projects to go forward during the coming financial year. These projects are Derbyshire, Humberside, Manchester and Merseyside—Liverpool, Sefton, St. Helens, Knowsley, and Wirral.