§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will take account of(a) candidates' home addresses proximity to Crown courts on circuits and (b) the need for High Court judges on that circuit when making appointments to the position of High Court judge; and if he will make a statement. [139729]
§ Mr. LockMy right hon. and learned Friend the Lord Chancellor will recommend for appointment to each High Court vacancy the candidate who appears to him to be best qualified, with reference to the published criteria alone.
The home address of the candidate is not a relevant factor. Likewise, the needs of a circuit are not a relevant factor in considering an individual's suitability for appointment. High Court judges are not appointed to individual circuits; they go on circuit to meet the business needs of the courts as they arise. However, the needs of the justice system as a whole are taken into account when assessing the number and type of vacancies on the High Court Bench.
§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what guidance is issued to High Court judges on(a) commuting from home and (b) staying in judges' lodgings when sitting on circuit. [139736]
§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what guidance is issued to circuit judges on(a) commuting from home and (b) claiming overnight hotel accommodation expenses when sitting on circuit away from their home court. [139735]
§ Mr. LockNo precise limit of distance or travelling time within which it would be considered reasonable for a judge to take hotel accommodation rather than return home has been fixed; cases are considered in the light of the individual circumstances, taking account of such matters as the method of travel, the time of year and road conditions.