§ Mr. Stephen O'BrienTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what progress the Government are making in considering the implications of the Starrs case in Scotland for the judicial system in England and Wales. [113405]
§ Mr. LockThe Lord Chancellor announced on 29 November that he was considering the implications which the judgment in Scotland may have for the part-time judiciary in England and Wales. He is considering all part-time appointments, their terms and conditions and tenure with a view to considering whether any changes need to be made. That review is being undertaken with all deliberate speed and a statement will be made as soon as possible.