§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department in relation to High Court judges on circuit,(a) what are the duties of the marshal, (b) who appoints the marshal, (c) who pays the wages and fees of the marshal, (d) what was the total cost of the marshal service to public funds for each of the last three years, (e) what uniform, dress code or badge of office distinguishes the marshal, (f) how many marshals there are and (g) what are the qualifications and experience required to be a marshal; and if he will make a statement. [141351]
§ Mr. Lock(a) A marshal is expected to take an active interest in the trial, make notes and be prepared to enter into discussion with the judge on legal matters; (b) the marshal is invited by the High Court judge to accompany him/her to small official functions; (c) the marshal is not paid any wages or fees, other than an allowance of £2.10 per day which is paid by the Court Service and any travel or laundry costs are borne by the marshal; (d) since April 2000, there have been nine marshals used, for a total of 86 days at a total cost of £180.60; (e) working dress is decided between the marshal and the judge; (f) the number of marshals on any circuit does not usually exceed two; and (g) marshals are normally law students or newly qualified lawyers, who accept the position as useful work experience.
§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department in relation to High Court judges' marshals, when on circuit,(a) what is the selection or appointment procedure followed in choosing a marshal, (b) what training is given to ensure the marshal is appointed in accordance with equal opportunities legislation and (c) for each of the last two years, how many marshals (i) were men, (ii) were women and (iii) were from ethnic minority backgrounds; and if he will make a statement. [141352]
§ Mr. LockThere are no appointment procedures. Marshals are invited by the High Court judge concerned to accompany him/her while on circuit to gain work experience. The statistics requested are not kept centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.