Courts Service Estate

Eric Illsley Excerpts

Tuesday 14th December 2010 Commons Chamber

[Mr Djanogly]

Thank you, Mr Speaker.

The court was used for only 23% of the available time in 2009-10, and the standard of accommodation falls far short of what is now expected by court users. However, consideration is to be given to those living in the north of the area having their cases heard at a more convenient court in the Avon and Somerset area.

[Mr Eric Illsley (Barnsley Central) (Lab)]

The Minister has already announced that Barnsley county court will be retained, but can he confirm that he has accepted the view of most of the statutory agencies that the county court should be joined with the magistrates court? Is that merger going to take place?

[Mr Djanogly]

I do not have an answer to that question. I will look into the matter and come back to the hon. Gentleman.