HL Deb 15 March 2002 vol 632 c105WA
Earl Russell

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether any attempt has been made to co-ordinate the timing of court sittings with the timing of local bus services. [HL2973]

The Lord Chancellor (Lord Irvine of Lairg)

This is a matter carried out as a judicial function within the relevant magistrates' courts committees (MCCs) area. However, listing officers in the magistrates' court do, acting under judicial supervision, take account as far as practicable of any transport problems, including the provision of public transport, when arranging case hearings for parties concerned, including witnesses.

Earl Russell

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether there is a maximum distance those unable to obtain transport to court may be required to walk to court. [HL2977]

The Lord Chancellor

My department has no set guideline on the maximum distance that those unable to obtain transport to court may be required to walk. However, NV hen considering suitable locations for new courthouses, magistrates' courts committees (MCCs) are required to establish a limitation on the distance from a public transport.