Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, if he will assess the potential merits of the appointment of specialist magistrates able to sit at short notice and out-of-hours to expedite eviction orders against illegal Traveller encampments.

It is felt that the current legal framework, including the new powers devolved to local authorities, is sufficient to deal with the problem of illegal traveller encampments.

I will, however, keep the situation under review, and my officials will ensure that I am kept informed of any developments.