§ Mr. Gordon MarsdenTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will review the operation of the small claims procedure in respect of the requirement for cases to be heard in the place of residence of the person against whom a claim is being pursued. [6579]
§ Mr. HoonThere is, in fact, no such requirement. In the county courts, liquidated claims are transferred to the defendant's home court on receipt of a defence. However, the plaintiff may apply for the claim to be returned to a court more convenient to him or her. The Lord Chancellor's Department is undertaking consultation on judicial case management, of which choice of venue is one element. Comments are sought by 26 September 1997.