Lay Magistracy

EDM number 1097 in 1999-00, proposed by David Taylor on 30/10/2000.

That this House congratulates the Magistrates' Association on the 80th anniversary of its creation in October 1920; 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.

This motion has been signed by a total of 173 MPs.