§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will make his policy for applicants for silk who are turned down to be given reasons in writing for the decision. [4845]
§ Mr. HoonApplicants for silk are advised in writing of the outcome of their application, and unsuccessful applicants are given some statistical information to indicate the intensity of the competition. Unsuccessful applicants are able to meet with senior officials of the Judicial Appointments Group who are able to provide feedback on the degree of support that the individual has received and the overall tenor of the views collected in the consultation process. The Lord Chancellor has no present intention to replace this with written reasons for his decision.