HC Deb 21 July 1999 vol 335 cc565-6W
Mr. Lidington

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department on what date the Courts Service received appeal papers in respect of Mr. Liaqat Ali (ISB/F4245) husband of Mrs. Jehan Akhtar of Aylesbury; when he expects the Courts Service to let Mr. Ali and Mrs. Akhtar know the date of their appeal hearing; and if he will make a statement. [91786]

Mr. Vaz

It has not been possible to trace the appeal from the limited information provided. Although there are several appeals listed under the name of Liaqat Ali, none match the date of birth or reference number quoted. perhaps the hon. Member will write to me if further details can be provided.

Mr. Lidington

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what was the average time between receipt of the Courts Service appeal papers in immigration cases and notification of the date of appeal to the parties in(a) May 1997, (b) May 1998 and (c) the most recent month for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement. [91787]

Mr. Vaz

No figures are available for May 1997. In May 1998, 40.9 per cent. of certified appeals and 100 per cent. of other appeals were issued within five

Mr. Vaz

Judicial appointments in Northern Ireland from 1991 to July 1999 are as set out. Information prior to 1991 could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. The perceived community origin of appointees is not a factor in judicial appointments and so is not recorded as part of the judicial appointments process.

working days. In June 1999, 100 per cent. of certified and other appeals were issued within five working days of receipt.