§ Mr. LidingtonTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what is the Government's policy on the eligibility for jury service of hon. Members and Members of the House of Lords. [14711]
§ Mr. DenhamI have been asked to reply.
The right to be excused jury service was considered by Sir Robin Auld as part of his independent review of the criminal courts. He recommended that no-one should be excusable from jury service as of right, only on showing good reason for excusal. His report is the subject of public 693W consultation until the end of January 2002, and the Government will give careful consideration to these issues in the light of comments received.