HC Deb 25 July 2000 vol 354 c538W
37. Mr. Ben Chapman

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what criteria he applies when determining appeals against closure of magistrates courts. [130608]

Jane Kennedy

When determining appeals, the Lord Chancellor looks for evidence that the MCC has followed the Central Council of Magistrates Courts Committees good practice guide. Issues to be considered: accessibility for court users, the facilities available, costs of necessary renovations to bring the court up to standard, the provision of courtrooms and workload, extra travelling distances, additional costs and overall efficiency.