§ Mr. ToddTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what representations he has received in 2001 from(a) the Countryside Agency and (b) the rural advocate on proposed closures of magistrates courts; and if he will make a statement. [21451]
§ Mr. WillsThe Lord Chancellor's Department has received one representation from(a) the Countryside Agency, and two representations from (b) the rural advocate, on proposed closures of magistrates courts.
It is the Government's policy that decisions concerning the number, location and future of magistrates courts are for each magistrates courts committee to determine, in consultation with its local paying authority or authorities.