LAY MAGISTRACY

Early day motion 123, tabled 19 December 2000 by David Taylor (Labour/Co-operative). Signed by 261 members.

That this House congratulates the Magistrates' Association on the 80th anniversary of its creation; pays tribute to the selfless dedication and commitment of the 30,000 volunteer justices of the peace from all walks of life who generously give their time to the lay magistracy; notes that the lay magistracy, with nearly 50 per cent. women and 6 per cent. ethnic minority members, is broadly representative of the society it serves and is by far the most representative component of the criminal justice system; applauds the valuable contribution lay magistrates make to delivering local justice in local communities; and looks forward to the continued success of this valuable role.

Signatures by party: Labour 146, Conservative 54, Liberal Democrat 35, Labour/Co-operative 13, UUP 5, Plaid Cymru 4, DUP 2, Independent 1, UKUP 1.