Search Legislation

Justices of the Peace Act 1979 (repealed 19.6.1997)

 Help about what version

What Version

 Help about advanced features

Advanced Features

Changes over time for: Cross Heading: Magistrates’ courts committees

 Help about opening options

Version Superseded: 19/06/1997

Status:

Point in time view as at 04/07/1996.

Changes to legislation:

There are currently no known outstanding effects for the Justices of the Peace Act 1979 (repealed 19.6.1997), Cross Heading: Magistrates’ courts committees. Help about Changes to Legislation

Close

Changes to Legislation

Revised legislation carried on this site may not be fully up to date. At the current time any known changes or effects made by subsequent legislation have been applied to the text of the legislation you are viewing by the editorial team. Please see ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ for details regarding the timescales for which new effects are identified and recorded on this site.

Magistrates’ courts committeesE+W

19 General provisions as to magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

(1)There shall continue to be committees (to be called “magistrates’ courts committees”) set up in accordance with the following provisions of this Part of this Act, with such functions [F1as are or may be conferred on them by or under this or any other Act and such other functions relating to matters of an administrative character] as they may be authorised by the [F2Lord Chancellor] to undertake.

(2)Subject to [F3section 69 of the Police and Magistrates’ Courts Act 1994 and to any order made under subsection (3) of this section before the commencement of that section], there shall be a magistrates’ courts committee for each area to which this subsection applies, that is to say—

(a)every [F4relevant area][F5in England];

(b)every metropolitan district;

[F5(bb)every preserved county in Wales;]

(c)[F6every outer London borough];

[F7(cc)the inner London area; and]

(d)the City of London.

F8(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F8(4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F2Words in s. 19(1)(3)(a)(4) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F4Words in s. 19(2)(a) substituted (1.4.1996) by S.I. 1996/674, reg. 2, Sch. Pt. I para. 1(4)

F5Words in s. 19(2)(a) and s. 19(2)(bb) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1994 c. 19, s. 1(3), Sch. 2 para. 10(3); S.I. 1995/3198, art. 3, Sch.1

F7Words in s. 19(2) substituted (1.11.1994 for specified purposes and 1.4.1995 for all remaining purposes) by 1994 c. 29, s. 79(4); S.I. 1994/2594, art. 4; S.I. 1995/685, art. 3.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C2Power to amend s. 19 conferred (5.7.1994) by 1994 c. 19, s. 55(3)(b).

[F920 Constitution of magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

(1)A magistrates’ courts committee shall, subject to subsections (2) to (4) below, be composed of magistrates for the area to which the committee relates, chosen in accordance with regulations under section 21 of this Act.

(2)Not more than two other members, who need not be justices of the peace, may be either—

(a)co-opted by a magistrates’ courts committee to the committee with the approval of the Lord Chancellor, or

(b)appointed by the Lord Chancellor to the committee.

(3)The chief metropolitan stipendiary magistrate shall by virtue of his office be a member of the inner London magistrates’ courts committee.

(4)Until such day as the Lord Chancellor may by order made by statutory instrument appoint, two members of the inner London magistrates’ courts committee shall be other metropolitan stipendiary magistrates appointed by the chief metropolitan stipendiary magistrate.

(5)In subsections (3) and (4) above “the inner London magistrates’ courts committee” means the magistrates’ courts committee for an area consisting of or including the whole of the inner London area or, if there is no such committee, every magistrates’ courts committee for any area which consists of or includes any part of the inner London area.]

Textual Amendments

F9S. 20 substituted (1.11.1994 subject to saving in art. 5 of S.I. 1994/2594) by 1994 c. 29, s.70; S.I. 1994/2594, art. 3

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3S. 20(3)(4) excluded (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 88(6); S.I. 1995/685, art. 4

21 Powers of [F10Lord Chancellor] in relation to magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

(1)The [F10Lord Chancellor] may by statutory instrument make general regulations about the constitution, procedure and quorum of magistrates’ courts committees; but F11. . . any such regulations shall have effect subject to the provisions of section 20 of this Act.

[F12(1A)Any such regulations shall provide for the members referred to in section 20(1) of this Act to be chosen by a selection panel constituted in accordance with the regulations.]

[F13(2)Any such regulations may—

(a)lay down an upper limit for the number of members of a magistrates’ courts committee (inclusive of the members referred to in subsections (2), (3) and (4) of section 20 of this Act), and

(b)enable the Lord Chancellor to direct that, in relation to any magistrates’ courts committee to which the direction is given, any members co-opted or appointed under subsection (2) of that section are to be left out of account in applying the upper limit.

(2A)Any such regulations may also make different provision in relation to the magistrates’ courts committees for areas which consist of or include the whole or any part of the inner London area from that made in relation to other committees.]

(3)Any such regulations may also make provision with respect to the persons (other than the members, clerks and officers of the committee) who may be entitled to attend the meetings of a magistrates’ courts committee and the rights of such persons to make representations to the committee.

(4)The [F10Lord Chancellor] may give general or special directions with respect to summoning the first meeting of magistrates’ courts committees.

Textual Amendments

F10Words in s. 21 substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F11Words in s. 21(1) repealed (1.11.1994) by 1994 c. 29, s. 93, Sch. 9 Pt.II; S.I. 1994/2594, art.7

F12S. 21(1A) inserted (1.11.1994 subject to saving in art. 5 of S.I. 1994/2594) by 1994 c. 29, s. 71(2); S.I. 1994/2594, art.3

F13S. 21(2)(2A) substituted for s. 21(2) (1.11.1994 subject to saving in art. 5 of S.I. 1994/2594) by 1994 c. 29, s. 71(3); S.I. 1994/2594, art.3 (with art. 5)

22 Supplementary provisions as to magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

[F14(1)Subject to subsection (1A) below, a magistrates’ courts committee shall appoint one of their members to be chairman of the committee.

(1A)Until such day as the Lord Chancellor may by order made by statutory instrument appoint, the chief metropolitan stipendiary magistrate shall by virtue of his office be the chairman of any magistrates’ courts committee for an area which consists of or includes the whole of the inner London area.]

F15(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3)Where the magistrates for a petty sessions area are required to meet for the purpose of carrying out any functions under [F16section 21] of this Act, a meeting shall be convened by the magistrates’ courts committee or, if there is no such committee in being or the [F17Lord Chancellor] considers it appropriate, by the [F17Lord Chancellor].

(4)A magistrates’ courts committee may act through sub-committees appointed by them [F18which may, if they include at least one member of the committee, also include persons who are not members].

[F19(4A)A magistrates’ courts committee may also arrange for the discharge of any of their functions—

(a)by the chairman of the committee, or

(b)by the justices’ chief executive.]

(5)Subject to the provisions of this Act, a magistrates’ courts committee shall have power to regulate its own procedure, including quorum.

(6)The proceedings of a magistrates’ courts committee shall not be invalidated by reason of any vacancy therein or of any defect in the appointment of a member.

(7)A magistrates’ courts committee shall be a body corporate.

[F20(8)A magistrates’ courts committee shall, on at least one occasion in every calendar year, admit members of the public to a meeting of the committee.

(9)The minutes of proceedings of every meeting of a magistrates’ courts committee shall be open to inspection by members of the public at the offices of the committee, except to the extent that the committee determine that the minutes disclose information of a confidential nature.

(10)Copies of any minutes which are open to inspection under subsection (9) above shall be made available to the public on payment of such reasonable fee as the magistrates’ courts committee may in any case determine.

(11)A magistrates’ courts committee making a determination under subsection (9) above shall state their reasons for regarding the information in question as being of a confidential nature.]

Textual Amendments

F14S. 22(1)(1A) substituted for s. 21(1) (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 72(2); S.I. 1995/685, art.4(a)

F16Words in s. 22(3) substituted (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 91, Sch. 8 Pt. I para.5; S.I. 1995/685, art.7(a)

F17Words in s. 22(1)(3) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F18Words in s. 22(4) inserted (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 72(4); S.I. 1995/685, art.4(a)

F20S. 22(8)-(11) added (1.4.1995, 1.10.1995, 1.1.1996 in relation to areas as specified in art. 5(1)-(3) of S.I. 1995/685) by 1994 c. 29, s. 72(6); S.I. 1995/685, arts.4(a), 5(1)-(3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C4S. 22 extended (1.11.1994) by 1994 c. 29, s. 69(8)(c); S.I. 1994/2594, art.3

[F2122A General powers and duties of magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

(1)A magistrates’ courts committee shall be responsible for the efficient and effective administration of the magistrates’ courts for their area.

(2)A magistrates’ courts committee may, in particular—

(a)allocate administrative responsibilities among the justices’ chief executive, the justices’ clerks and the staff of the committee, and

(b)determine the administrative procedures to be followed by any of the persons mentioned in paragraph (a) above.

(3)It shall be the duty of every magistrates’ courts committee to provide courses of instruction for justices’ clerks and for staff of the committee.

(4)The Lord Chancellor may give directions to magistrates’ courts committees requiring each of them, in discharging their responsibilities under subsection (1) above, to meet specified standards of performance.

(5)The Lord Chancellor may also give directions to magistrates’ courts committees requiring each of them to take specified steps, at such intervals as may be specified—

(a)for the purpose of keeping the magistrates for their area informed as to the activities of the committee, or

(b)for the purpose of ascertaining the views of those magistrates on particular matters related to the functions of the committee.

(6)In discharging their responsibilities under subsection (1) above, a magistrates’ courts committee shall have regard to the needs of court users who are disabled; and so long as any direction under subsection (4) above is in force the standards of performance required under that subsection must include standards relating to the provision made for such court users.

(7)A direction under this section may be given to all magistrates’ courts committees or to one or more particular committees.

(8)The Lord Chancellor shall arrange for any direction given under this section to be published in such manner as he thinks fit.]

Textual Amendments

F21S. 22A inserted (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s.73; S.I. 1995/685, art. 4(b).

23 Powers and duties of committee as to petty sessional divisions.E+W

(1)Subject to the provisions of this and the next following section, a magistrates’ courts committee F22. . . may at any time submit to the [F23Lord Chancellor] a draft order making such provision about the division of [F24their area] or any part thereof into petty sessional divisions as the committee think fit.

(2)It shall be the duty of such a committee, if directed to do so by the [F23Lord Chancellor], to review the division of [F25their area], or any part thereof into petty sessional divisions and, on completion of the review, to submit to the [F23Lord Chancellor] either a draft order under subsection (1) above or a report giving reasons for making no change.

(3)Subject to the provisions of this and the next following section—

(a)where such a committee submit a draft order to the [F23Lord Chancellor] under this section, he may by statutory instrument make the order either in the terms of the draft or with such modifications as he thinks fit; and

(b)where such a committee fail to comply within six months with a direction of the [F23Lord Chancellor] under subsection (2) above, or the [F23Lord Chancellor] is dissatisfied with the draft order or report submitted in pursuance of such a direction, he may by statutory instrument make such order as he thinks fit about the division into petty sessional divisions of the area to which the direction related.

(4)An order under this section may provide for [F26an area] ceasing to be divided into petty sessional divisions, and a direction under subsection (2) above may be given with respect to the division of [F26an area] which is not for the time being so divided.

(5)Any order under this section may contain transitional and other consequential provisions.

Textual Amendments

F23Words in s. 23(1)(2)(3)(a)(b) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

24 Procedure relating to s. 23.E+W

(1)Before submitting to the [F27Lord Chancellor] a draft order or a report under section 23 of this Act about any area, a magistrates’ courts committee—

(a)shall consult the [F28council of every] non-metropolitan county [F29[F30unitary district][F31, county borough in Wales] or F32. . . London borough][F33which includes all or part of the area] and the magistrates for any existing petty sessional division in the area; and

(b)in the case of a draft order [F34concerning a non-metropolitan county][F35in England], after complying with paragraph (a) above, shall send a copy of their proposals to every interested authority and take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time.

(2)A magistrates’ courts committee submitting to the [F27Lord Chancellor] a draft order or a report under section 23 of this Act shall comply with such requirements (if any) as to notice as may be prescribed; and the [F27Lord Chancellor], before making an order under that section about any area otherwise than in accordance with a draft submitted to him by the magistrates’ courts committee, shall send a copy of his proposals to the committee, to the [F36council of every] non-metropolitan county [F37, [F30unitary district][F30, county borough in Wales] or F38. . . London borough [F39which includes all or part of the area], to the magistrates for any existing petty sessional division in the area and, if a non-metropolitan county [F35in England] is concerned, to every interested authority].

(3)Before making any order under section 23 of this Act the [F27Lord Chancellor] shall take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time, and may cause a local inquiry to be held.

(4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F40

(5)Subject to the provisions of Schedule 1 to this Act, the powers conferred by section 23 of this Act shall be in substitution for any other power to create or alter petty sessional divisions F41. . ., except powers conferred by any other provision of this Act [F42or by section 69 of the Police and Magistrates’ Courts Act 1994].

(6)For the purposes of this section—

(a)interested authority”, in relation to any order or draft order [F43concerning a non-metropolitan county [F35in England], means the council of any district in the county [F44(other than a unitary district)] which is wholly or partly included in the area to which the order or draft order relates; and]

(b)an order shall be deemed to be made in accordance with a draft order if either it is made in terms of the draft order or the departures from the draft order do not, in the opinion of the [F27Lord Chancellor], effect important alterations in the draft order.

Textual Amendments

F27Words in s. 24(1)(2)(3)(6)(b) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F30Words in s. 24(1)(a)(2) substituted (1.4.1996) by S.I. 1996/674, reg. 2, Sch. Pt. I para. 1(5)(a)

[F4524A Alteration of names of petty sessions areas outside inner London Area.E+W

(1)Subject to the provisions of this and the next section, a magistrates’ courts committee F46. . . may at any time submit to the [F47Lord Chancellor] a draft order altering the name of the petty sessions area for which they are the committee or, if they are the committee for more than one petty sessions area, the name of any of those areas.

(2)Subject to the provisions of this and the next following section, where such a committee submit a draft order to the [F47Lord Chancellor] under this section, he may by statutory instrument make the order either in the terms of the draft or with such modifications as he thinks fit.

[F48(2A)Nothing in this section shall enable the name of the petty sessions area consisting of the City of London to be changed.]

(3)Any order under this section may contain transitional and other consequential provisions.]

24B Procedure relating to s. 24A.E+W

(1)Before submitting to the [F49Lord Chancellor] a draft order under section 24A of this Act, a magistrates’ courts committee—

(a)shall consult the council of the non-metropolitan county, [F50unitary district][F51, county borough in Wales] or [F52London borough] concerned and the magistrates of the petty sessions area to which their proposals relate; and

(b)after complying with paragraph (a) above, shall send a copy of their proposals to every interested authority and take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time.

(2)A magistrates’ courts committee submitting to the [F49Lord Chancellor] a draft order under section 24A of this Act shall comply with such requirements (if any) as to notice as may be prescribed; and the [F49Lord Chancellor], before making an order under that section otherwise than in accordance with a draft submitted to him by the magistrates’ court committee, shall send a copy of his proposals to the committee, to the council of the non-metropolitan county, [F50unitary district][F51, county borough in Wales] or [F52London borough] concerned and, if a non-metropolitan county [F53in England] is concerned, every interested authority.

(3)Before making any order under section 24A of this Act the [F49Lord Chancellor] shall take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time, and may cause a local inquiry to be held.

(4)For the purposes of this section—

(a)interested authority” , in relation to any order or draft order concerning a non-metropolitan county [F53in England], means the council of any district in the county [F54(other than a unitary district)] which is wholly or partly included in the area to which the order or draft order relates; and

(b)an order shall be deemed to be made in accordance with a draft order if either it is made in terms of the draft order or the departures from the draft order do not, in the opinion of the [F49Lord Chancellor], effect important alterations in the draft order.

Textual Amendments

F49Words in s. 24B(1)(2)(3)(4)(b) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

[F5524C Reports and plans.E+W

(1)The Lord Chancellor may by regulations made by statutory instrument require magistrates’ courts committees to submit to him such reports and plans, in relation to matters for which they are responsible, as may be prescribed.

(2)Any report or plan required by regulations under this section—

(a)shall be prepared in the prescribed manner, after such consultation as may be prescribed, and within such time as may be prescribed,

(b)shall be in the prescribed form,

(c)shall be sent to such persons as may be prescribed, and

(d)shall be made available to the public on payment of such reasonable fee as the magistrates’ courts committee may in any case determine.

(3)The Lord Chancellor may direct any one or more magistrates’ courts committees to produce such additional reports or plans in relation to matters for which they are responsible as may be specified in the direction.]

Textual Amendments

F55S. 24C inserted (1.11.1994) by 1994 c. 29, s.74; S.I. 1994/2594, art.3

Magistrates’ courts committeesE+W

19 General provisions as to magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

(1)There shall continue to be committees (to be called “magistrates’ courts committees”) set up in accordance with the following provisions of this Part of this Act, with such functions [F1as are or may be conferred on them by or under this or any other Act and such other functions relating to matters of an administrative character] as they may be authorised by the [F2Lord Chancellor] to undertake.

(2)Subject to [F3section 69 of the Police and Magistrates’ Courts Act 1994 and to any order made under subsection (3) of this section before the commencement of that section], there shall be a magistrates’ courts committee for each area to which this subsection applies, that is to say—

(a)every [F4relevant area][F5in England];

(b)every metropolitan district;

[F5(bb)every preserved county in Wales;]

(c)[F6every outer London borough];

[F7(cc)the inner London area; and]

(d)the City of London.

F8(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F8(4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F2Words in s. 19(1)(3)(a)(4) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F4Words in s. 19(2)(a) substituted (1.4.1996) by S.I. 1996/674, reg. 2, Sch. Pt. I para. 1(4)

F5Words in s. 19(2)(a) and s. 19(2)(bb) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1994 c. 19, s. 1(3), Sch. 2 para. 10(3); S.I. 1995/3198, art. 3, Sch.1

F7Words in s. 19(2) substituted (1.11.1994 for specified purposes and 1.4.1995 for all remaining purposes) by 1994 c. 29, s. 79(4); S.I. 1994/2594, art. 4; S.I. 1995/685, art. 3.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C2Power to amend s. 19 conferred (5.7.1994) by 1994 c. 19, s. 55(3)(b).

[F920 Constitution of magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

(1)A magistrates’ courts committee shall, subject to subsections (2) to (4) below, be composed of magistrates for the area to which the committee relates, chosen in accordance with regulations under section 21 of this Act.

(2)Not more than two other members, who need not be justices of the peace, may be either—

(a)co-opted by a magistrates’ courts committee to the committee with the approval of the Lord Chancellor, or

(b)appointed by the Lord Chancellor to the committee.

(3)The chief metropolitan stipendiary magistrate shall by virtue of his office be a member of the inner London magistrates’ courts committee.

(4)Until such day as the Lord Chancellor may by order made by statutory instrument appoint, two members of the inner London magistrates’ courts committee shall be other metropolitan stipendiary magistrates appointed by the chief metropolitan stipendiary magistrate.

(5)In subsections (3) and (4) above “the inner London magistrates’ courts committee” means the magistrates’ courts committee for an area consisting of or including the whole of the inner London area or, if there is no such committee, every magistrates’ courts committee for any area which consists of or includes any part of the inner London area.]

Textual Amendments

F9S. 20 substituted (1.11.1994 subject to saving in art. 5 of S.I. 1994/2594) by 1994 c. 29, s.70; S.I. 1994/2594, art. 3

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3S. 20(3)(4) excluded (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 88(6); S.I. 1995/685, art. 4

21 Powers of [F10Lord Chancellor] in relation to magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

(1)The [F10Lord Chancellor] may by statutory instrument make general regulations about the constitution, procedure and quorum of magistrates’ courts committees; but F11. . . any such regulations shall have effect subject to the provisions of section 20 of this Act.

[F12(1A)Any such regulations shall provide for the members referred to in section 20(1) of this Act to be chosen by a selection panel constituted in accordance with the regulations.]

[F13(2)Any such regulations may—

(a)lay down an upper limit for the number of members of a magistrates’ courts committee (inclusive of the members referred to in subsections (2), (3) and (4) of section 20 of this Act), and

(b)enable the Lord Chancellor to direct that, in relation to any magistrates’ courts committee to which the direction is given, any members co-opted or appointed under subsection (2) of that section are to be left out of account in applying the upper limit.

(2A)Any such regulations may also make different provision in relation to the magistrates’ courts committees for areas which consist of or include the whole or any part of the inner London area from that made in relation to other committees.]

(3)Any such regulations may also make provision with respect to the persons (other than the members, clerks and officers of the committee) who may be entitled to attend the meetings of a magistrates’ courts committee and the rights of such persons to make representations to the committee.

(4)The [F10Lord Chancellor] may give general or special directions with respect to summoning the first meeting of magistrates’ courts committees.

Textual Amendments

F10Words in s. 21 substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F11Words in s. 21(1) repealed (1.11.1994) by 1994 c. 29, s. 93, Sch. 9 Pt.II; S.I. 1994/2594, art.7

F12S. 21(1A) inserted (1.11.1994 subject to saving in art. 5 of S.I. 1994/2594) by 1994 c. 29, s. 71(2); S.I. 1994/2594, art.3

F13S. 21(2)(2A) substituted for s. 21(2) (1.11.1994 subject to saving in art. 5 of S.I. 1994/2594) by 1994 c. 29, s. 71(3); S.I. 1994/2594, art.3 (with art. 5)

22 Supplementary provisions as to magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

[F14(1)Subject to subsection (1A) below, a magistrates’ courts committee shall appoint one of their members to be chairman of the committee.

(1A)Until such day as the Lord Chancellor may by order made by statutory instrument appoint, the chief metropolitan stipendiary magistrate shall by virtue of his office be the chairman of any magistrates’ courts committee for an area which consists of or includes the whole of the inner London area.]

F15(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3)Where the magistrates for a petty sessions area are required to meet for the purpose of carrying out any functions under [F16section 21] of this Act, a meeting shall be convened by the magistrates’ courts committee or, if there is no such committee in being or the [F17Lord Chancellor] considers it appropriate, by the [F17Lord Chancellor].

(4)A magistrates’ courts committee may act through sub-committees appointed by them [F18which may, if they include at least one member of the committee, also include persons who are not members].

[F19(4A)A magistrates’ courts committee may also arrange for the discharge of any of their functions—

(a)by the chairman of the committee, or

(b)by the justices’ chief executive.]

(5)Subject to the provisions of this Act, a magistrates’ courts committee shall have power to regulate its own procedure, including quorum.

(6)The proceedings of a magistrates’ courts committee shall not be invalidated by reason of any vacancy therein or of any defect in the appointment of a member.

(7)A magistrates’ courts committee shall be a body corporate.

[F20(8)A magistrates’ courts committee shall, on at least one occasion in every calendar year, admit members of the public to a meeting of the committee.

(9)The minutes of proceedings of every meeting of a magistrates’ courts committee shall be open to inspection by members of the public at the offices of the committee, except to the extent that the committee determine that the minutes disclose information of a confidential nature.

(10)Copies of any minutes which are open to inspection under subsection (9) above shall be made available to the public on payment of such reasonable fee as the magistrates’ courts committee may in any case determine.

(11)A magistrates’ courts committee making a determination under subsection (9) above shall state their reasons for regarding the information in question as being of a confidential nature.]

Textual Amendments

F14S. 22(1)(1A) substituted for s. 21(1) (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 72(2); S.I. 1995/685, art.4(a)

F16Words in s. 22(3) substituted (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 91, Sch. 8 Pt. I para.5; S.I. 1995/685, art.7(a)

F17Words in s. 22(1)(3) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F18Words in s. 22(4) inserted (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 72(4); S.I. 1995/685, art.4(a)

F20S. 22(8)-(11) added (1.4.1995, 1.10.1995, 1.1.1996 in relation to areas as specified in art. 5(1)-(3) of S.I. 1995/685) by 1994 c. 29, s. 72(6); S.I. 1995/685, arts.4(a), 5(1)-(3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C4S. 22 extended (1.11.1994) by 1994 c. 29, s. 69(8)(c); S.I. 1994/2594, art.3

23 Powers and duties of committee as to petty sessional divisions.E+W

(1)Subject to the provisions of this and the next following section, a magistrates’ courts committee F22. . . may at any time submit to the [F23Lord Chancellor] a draft order making such provision about the division of [F24their area] or any part thereof into petty sessional divisions as the committee think fit.

(2)It shall be the duty of such a committee, if directed to do so by the [F23Lord Chancellor], to review the division of [F25their area], or any part thereof into petty sessional divisions and, on completion of the review, to submit to the [F23Lord Chancellor] either a draft order under subsection (1) above or a report giving reasons for making no change.

(3)Subject to the provisions of this and the next following section—

(a)where such a committee submit a draft order to the [F23Lord Chancellor] under this section, he may by statutory instrument make the order either in the terms of the draft or with such modifications as he thinks fit; and

(b)where such a committee fail to comply within six months with a direction of the [F23Lord Chancellor] under subsection (2) above, or the [F23Lord Chancellor] is dissatisfied with the draft order or report submitted in pursuance of such a direction, he may by statutory instrument make such order as he thinks fit about the division into petty sessional divisions of the area to which the direction related.

(4)An order under this section may provide for [F26an area] ceasing to be divided into petty sessional divisions, and a direction under subsection (2) above may be given with respect to the division of [F26an area] which is not for the time being so divided.

(5)Any order under this section may contain transitional and other consequential provisions.

Textual Amendments

F23Words in s. 23(1)(2)(3)(a)(b) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

24 Procedure relating to s. 23.E+W

(1)Before submitting to the [F27Lord Chancellor] a draft order or a report under section 23 of this Act about any area, a magistrates’ courts committee—

(a)shall consult the [F28council of every] non-metropolitan county [F29[F30unitary district][F31, county borough in Wales] or F32. . . London borough][F33which includes all or part of the area] and the magistrates for any existing petty sessional division in the area; and

(b)in the case of a draft order [F34concerning a non-metropolitan county][F35in England], after complying with paragraph (a) above, shall send a copy of their proposals to every interested authority and take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time.

(2)A magistrates’ courts committee submitting to the [F27Lord Chancellor] a draft order or a report under section 23 of this Act shall comply with such requirements (if any) as to notice as may be prescribed; and the [F27Lord Chancellor], before making an order under that section about any area otherwise than in accordance with a draft submitted to him by the magistrates’ courts committee, shall send a copy of his proposals to the committee, to the [F36council of every] non-metropolitan county [F37, [F30unitary district][F30, county borough in Wales] or F38. . . London borough [F39which includes all or part of the area], to the magistrates for any existing petty sessional division in the area and, if a non-metropolitan county [F35in England] is concerned, to every interested authority].

(3)Before making any order under section 23 of this Act the [F27Lord Chancellor] shall take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time, and may cause a local inquiry to be held.

(4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F40

(5)Subject to the provisions of Schedule 1 to this Act, the powers conferred by section 23 of this Act shall be in substitution for any other power to create or alter petty sessional divisions F41. . ., except powers conferred by any other provision of this Act [F42or by section 69 of the Police and Magistrates’ Courts Act 1994].

(6)For the purposes of this section—

(a)interested authority”, in relation to any order or draft order [F43concerning a non-metropolitan county [F35in England], means the council of any district in the county [F44(other than a unitary district)] which is wholly or partly included in the area to which the order or draft order relates; and]

(b)an order shall be deemed to be made in accordance with a draft order if either it is made in terms of the draft order or the departures from the draft order do not, in the opinion of the [F27Lord Chancellor], effect important alterations in the draft order.

Textual Amendments

F27Words in s. 24(1)(2)(3)(6)(b) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F30Words in s. 24(1)(a)(2) substituted (1.4.1996) by S.I. 1996/674, reg. 2, Sch. Pt. I para. 1(5)(a)

[F4524A Alteration of names of petty sessions areas outside inner London Area.E+W

(1)Subject to the provisions of this and the next section, a magistrates’ courts committee F46. . . may at any time submit to the [F47Lord Chancellor] a draft order altering the name of the petty sessions area for which they are the committee or, if they are the committee for more than one petty sessions area, the name of any of those areas.

(2)Subject to the provisions of this and the next following section, where such a committee submit a draft order to the [F47Lord Chancellor] under this section, he may by statutory instrument make the order either in the terms of the draft or with such modifications as he thinks fit.

[F48(2A)Nothing in this section shall enable the name of the petty sessions area consisting of the City of London to be changed.]

(3)Any order under this section may contain transitional and other consequential provisions.]

24B Procedure relating to s. 24A.E+W

(1)Before submitting to the [F49Lord Chancellor] a draft order under section 24A of this Act, a magistrates’ courts committee—

(a)shall consult the council of the non-metropolitan county, [F50unitary district][F51, county borough in Wales] or [F52London borough] concerned and the magistrates of the petty sessions area to which their proposals relate; and

(b)after complying with paragraph (a) above, shall send a copy of their proposals to every interested authority and take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time.

(2)A magistrates’ courts committee submitting to the [F49Lord Chancellor] a draft order under section 24A of this Act shall comply with such requirements (if any) as to notice as may be prescribed; and the [F49Lord Chancellor], before making an order under that section otherwise than in accordance with a draft submitted to him by the magistrates’ court committee, shall send a copy of his proposals to the committee, to the council of the non-metropolitan county, [F50unitary district][F51, county borough in Wales] or [F52London borough] concerned and, if a non-metropolitan county [F53in England] is concerned, every interested authority.

(3)Before making any order under section 24A of this Act the [F49Lord Chancellor] shall take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time, and may cause a local inquiry to be held.

(4)For the purposes of this section—

(a)interested authority” , in relation to any order or draft order concerning a non-metropolitan county [F53in England], means the council of any district in the county [F54(other than a unitary district)] which is wholly or partly included in the area to which the order or draft order relates; and

(b)an order shall be deemed to be made in accordance with a draft order if either it is made in terms of the draft order or the departures from the draft order do not, in the opinion of the [F49Lord Chancellor], effect important alterations in the draft order.

Textual Amendments

F49Words in s. 24B(1)(2)(3)(4)(b) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

Magistrates’ courts committeesE+W

19 General provisions as to magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

(1)There shall continue to be committees (to be called “magistrates’ courts committees”) set up in accordance with the following provisions of this Part of this Act, with such functions [F1as are or may be conferred on them by or under this or any other Act and such other functions relating to matters of an administrative character] as they may be authorised by the [F2Lord Chancellor] to undertake.

(2)Subject to [F3section 69 of the Police and Magistrates’ Courts Act 1994 and to any order made under subsection (3) of this section before the commencement of that section], there shall be a magistrates’ courts committee for each area to which this subsection applies, that is to say—

(a)every [F4relevant area][F5in England];

(b)every metropolitan district;

[F5(bb)every preserved county in Wales;]

(c)[F6every outer London borough];

[F7(cc)the inner London area; and]

(d)the City of London.

F8(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F8(4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F2Words in s. 19(1)(3)(a)(4) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F4Words in s. 19(2)(a) substituted (1.4.1996) by S.I. 1996/674, reg. 2, Sch. Pt. I para. 1(4)

F5Words in s. 19(2)(a) and s. 19(2)(bb) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1994 c. 19, s. 1(3), Sch. 2 para. 10(3); S.I. 1995/3198, art. 3, Sch.1

F7Words in s. 19(2) substituted (1.11.1994 for specified purposes and 1.4.1995 for all remaining purposes) by 1994 c. 29, s. 79(4); S.I. 1994/2594, art. 4; S.I. 1995/685, art. 3.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C2Power to amend s. 19 conferred (5.7.1994) by 1994 c. 19, s. 55(3)(b).

[F920 Constitution of magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

(1)A magistrates’ courts committee shall, subject to subsections (2) to (4) below, be composed of magistrates for the area to which the committee relates, chosen in accordance with regulations under section 21 of this Act.

(2)Not more than two other members, who need not be justices of the peace, may be either—

(a)co-opted by a magistrates’ courts committee to the committee with the approval of the Lord Chancellor, or

(b)appointed by the Lord Chancellor to the committee.

(3)The chief metropolitan stipendiary magistrate shall by virtue of his office be a member of the inner London magistrates’ courts committee.

(4)Until such day as the Lord Chancellor may by order made by statutory instrument appoint, two members of the inner London magistrates’ courts committee shall be other metropolitan stipendiary magistrates appointed by the chief metropolitan stipendiary magistrate.

(5)In subsections (3) and (4) above “the inner London magistrates’ courts committee” means the magistrates’ courts committee for an area consisting of or including the whole of the inner London area or, if there is no such committee, every magistrates’ courts committee for any area which consists of or includes any part of the inner London area.]

Textual Amendments

F9S. 20 substituted (1.11.1994 subject to saving in art. 5 of S.I. 1994/2594) by 1994 c. 29, s.70; S.I. 1994/2594, art. 3

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3S. 20(3)(4) excluded (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 88(6); S.I. 1995/685, art. 4

21 Powers of [F10Lord Chancellor] in relation to magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

(1)The [F10Lord Chancellor] may by statutory instrument make general regulations about the constitution, procedure and quorum of magistrates’ courts committees; but F11. . . any such regulations shall have effect subject to the provisions of section 20 of this Act.

[F12(1A)Any such regulations shall provide for the members referred to in section 20(1) of this Act to be chosen by a selection panel constituted in accordance with the regulations.]

[F13(2)Any such regulations may—

(a)lay down an upper limit for the number of members of a magistrates’ courts committee (inclusive of the members referred to in subsections (2), (3) and (4) of section 20 of this Act), and

(b)enable the Lord Chancellor to direct that, in relation to any magistrates’ courts committee to which the direction is given, any members co-opted or appointed under subsection (2) of that section are to be left out of account in applying the upper limit.

(2A)Any such regulations may also make different provision in relation to the magistrates’ courts committees for areas which consist of or include the whole or any part of the inner London area from that made in relation to other committees.]

(3)Any such regulations may also make provision with respect to the persons (other than the members, clerks and officers of the committee) who may be entitled to attend the meetings of a magistrates’ courts committee and the rights of such persons to make representations to the committee.

(4)The [F10Lord Chancellor] may give general or special directions with respect to summoning the first meeting of magistrates’ courts committees.

Textual Amendments

F10Words in s. 21 substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F11Words in s. 21(1) repealed (1.11.1994) by 1994 c. 29, s. 93, Sch. 9 Pt.II; S.I. 1994/2594, art.7

F12S. 21(1A) inserted (1.11.1994 subject to saving in art. 5 of S.I. 1994/2594) by 1994 c. 29, s. 71(2); S.I. 1994/2594, art.3

F13S. 21(2)(2A) substituted for s. 21(2) (1.11.1994 subject to saving in art. 5 of S.I. 1994/2594) by 1994 c. 29, s. 71(3); S.I. 1994/2594, art.3 (with art. 5)

22 Supplementary provisions as to magistrates’ courts committees.E+W

[F14(1)Subject to subsection (1A) below, a magistrates’ courts committee shall appoint one of their members to be chairman of the committee.

(1A)Until such day as the Lord Chancellor may by order made by statutory instrument appoint, the chief metropolitan stipendiary magistrate shall by virtue of his office be the chairman of any magistrates’ courts committee for an area which consists of or includes the whole of the inner London area.]

F15(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3)Where the magistrates for a petty sessions area are required to meet for the purpose of carrying out any functions under [F16section 21] of this Act, a meeting shall be convened by the magistrates’ courts committee or, if there is no such committee in being or the [F17Lord Chancellor] considers it appropriate, by the [F17Lord Chancellor].

(4)A magistrates’ courts committee may act through sub-committees appointed by them [F18which may, if they include at least one member of the committee, also include persons who are not members].

[F19(4A)A magistrates’ courts committee may also arrange for the discharge of any of their functions—

(a)by the chairman of the committee, or

(b)by the justices’ chief executive.]

(5)Subject to the provisions of this Act, a magistrates’ courts committee shall have power to regulate its own procedure, including quorum.

(6)The proceedings of a magistrates’ courts committee shall not be invalidated by reason of any vacancy therein or of any defect in the appointment of a member.

(7)A magistrates’ courts committee shall be a body corporate.

[F20(8)A magistrates’ courts committee shall, on at least one occasion in every calendar year, admit members of the public to a meeting of the committee.

(9)The minutes of proceedings of every meeting of a magistrates’ courts committee shall be open to inspection by members of the public at the offices of the committee, except to the extent that the committee determine that the minutes disclose information of a confidential nature.

(10)Copies of any minutes which are open to inspection under subsection (9) above shall be made available to the public on payment of such reasonable fee as the magistrates’ courts committee may in any case determine.

(11)A magistrates’ courts committee making a determination under subsection (9) above shall state their reasons for regarding the information in question as being of a confidential nature.]

Textual Amendments

F14S. 22(1)(1A) substituted for s. 21(1) (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 72(2); S.I. 1995/685, art.4(a)

F16Words in s. 22(3) substituted (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 91, Sch. 8 Pt. I para.5; S.I. 1995/685, art.7(a)

F17Words in s. 22(1)(3) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F18Words in s. 22(4) inserted (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 72(4); S.I. 1995/685, art.4(a)

F20S. 22(8)-(11) added (1.4.1995, 1.10.1995, 1.1.1996 in relation to areas as specified in art. 5(1)-(3) of S.I. 1995/685) by 1994 c. 29, s. 72(6); S.I. 1995/685, arts.4(a), 5(1)-(3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C4S. 22 extended (1.11.1994) by 1994 c. 29, s. 69(8)(c); S.I. 1994/2594, art.3

23 Powers and duties of committee as to petty sessional divisions.E+W

(1)Subject to the provisions of this and the next following section, a magistrates’ courts committee F22. . . may at any time submit to the [F23Lord Chancellor] a draft order making such provision about the division of [F24their area] or any part thereof into petty sessional divisions as the committee think fit.

(2)It shall be the duty of such a committee, if directed to do so by the [F23Lord Chancellor], to review the division of [F25their area], or any part thereof into petty sessional divisions and, on completion of the review, to submit to the [F23Lord Chancellor] either a draft order under subsection (1) above or a report giving reasons for making no change.

(3)Subject to the provisions of this and the next following section—

(a)where such a committee submit a draft order to the [F23Lord Chancellor] under this section, he may by statutory instrument make the order either in the terms of the draft or with such modifications as he thinks fit; and

(b)where such a committee fail to comply within six months with a direction of the [F23Lord Chancellor] under subsection (2) above, or the [F23Lord Chancellor] is dissatisfied with the draft order or report submitted in pursuance of such a direction, he may by statutory instrument make such order as he thinks fit about the division into petty sessional divisions of the area to which the direction related.

(4)An order under this section may provide for [F26an area] ceasing to be divided into petty sessional divisions, and a direction under subsection (2) above may be given with respect to the division of [F26an area] which is not for the time being so divided.

(5)Any order under this section may contain transitional and other consequential provisions.

Textual Amendments

F23Words in s. 23(1)(2)(3)(a)(b) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

24 Procedure relating to s. 23.E+W

(1)Before submitting to the [F27Lord Chancellor] a draft order or a report under section 23 of this Act about any area, a magistrates’ courts committee—

(a)shall consult the [F28council of every] non-metropolitan county [F29[F30unitary district][F31, county borough in Wales] or F32. . . London borough][F33which includes all or part of the area] and the magistrates for any existing petty sessional division in the area; and

(b)in the case of a draft order [F34concerning a non-metropolitan county][F35in England], after complying with paragraph (a) above, shall send a copy of their proposals to every interested authority and take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time.

(2)A magistrates’ courts committee submitting to the [F27Lord Chancellor] a draft order or a report under section 23 of this Act shall comply with such requirements (if any) as to notice as may be prescribed; and the [F27Lord Chancellor], before making an order under that section about any area otherwise than in accordance with a draft submitted to him by the magistrates’ courts committee, shall send a copy of his proposals to the committee, to the [F36council of every] non-metropolitan county [F37, [F30unitary district][F30, county borough in Wales] or F38. . . London borough [F39which includes all or part of the area], to the magistrates for any existing petty sessional division in the area and, if a non-metropolitan county [F35in England] is concerned, to every interested authority].

(3)Before making any order under section 23 of this Act the [F27Lord Chancellor] shall take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time, and may cause a local inquiry to be held.

(4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F40

(5)Subject to the provisions of Schedule 1 to this Act, the powers conferred by section 23 of this Act shall be in substitution for any other power to create or alter petty sessional divisions F41. . ., except powers conferred by any other provision of this Act [F42or by section 69 of the Police and Magistrates’ Courts Act 1994].

(6)For the purposes of this section—

(a)interested authority”, in relation to any order or draft order [F43concerning a non-metropolitan county [F35in England], means the council of any district in the county [F44(other than a unitary district)] which is wholly or partly included in the area to which the order or draft order relates; and]

(b)an order shall be deemed to be made in accordance with a draft order if either it is made in terms of the draft order or the departures from the draft order do not, in the opinion of the [F27Lord Chancellor], effect important alterations in the draft order.

Textual Amendments

F27Words in s. 24(1)(2)(3)(6)(b) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

F30Words in s. 24(1)(a)(2) substituted (1.4.1996) by S.I. 1996/674, reg. 2, Sch. Pt. I para. 1(5)(a)

[F4524A Alteration of names of petty sessions areas outside inner London Area.E+W

(1)Subject to the provisions of this and the next section, a magistrates’ courts committee F46. . . may at any time submit to the [F47Lord Chancellor] a draft order altering the name of the petty sessions area for which they are the committee or, if they are the committee for more than one petty sessions area, the name of any of those areas.

(2)Subject to the provisions of this and the next following section, where such a committee submit a draft order to the [F47Lord Chancellor] under this section, he may by statutory instrument make the order either in the terms of the draft or with such modifications as he thinks fit.

[F48(2A)Nothing in this section shall enable the name of the petty sessions area consisting of the City of London to be changed.]

(3)Any order under this section may contain transitional and other consequential provisions.]

24B Procedure relating to s. 24A.E+W

(1)Before submitting to the [F49Lord Chancellor] a draft order under section 24A of this Act, a magistrates’ courts committee—

(a)shall consult the council of the non-metropolitan county, [F50unitary district][F51, county borough in Wales] or [F52London borough] concerned and the magistrates of the petty sessions area to which their proposals relate; and

(b)after complying with paragraph (a) above, shall send a copy of their proposals to every interested authority and take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time.

(2)A magistrates’ courts committee submitting to the [F49Lord Chancellor] a draft order under section 24A of this Act shall comply with such requirements (if any) as to notice as may be prescribed; and the [F49Lord Chancellor], before making an order under that section otherwise than in accordance with a draft submitted to him by the magistrates’ court committee, shall send a copy of his proposals to the committee, to the council of the non-metropolitan county, [F50unitary district][F51, county borough in Wales] or [F52London borough] concerned and, if a non-metropolitan county [F53in England] is concerned, every interested authority.

(3)Before making any order under section 24A of this Act the [F49Lord Chancellor] shall take into consideration any objections made in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time, and may cause a local inquiry to be held.

(4)For the purposes of this section—

(a)interested authority” , in relation to any order or draft order concerning a non-metropolitan county [F53in England], means the council of any district in the county [F54(other than a unitary district)] which is wholly or partly included in the area to which the order or draft order relates; and

(b)an order shall be deemed to be made in accordance with a draft order if either it is made in terms of the draft order or the departures from the draft order do not, in the opinion of the [F49Lord Chancellor], effect important alterations in the draft order.

Textual Amendments

F49Words in s. 24B(1)(2)(3)(4)(b) substituted (1.4.1992) by virtue of S.I. 1992/709, art. 2(3).

[F5524C Reports and plans.E+W

(1)The Lord Chancellor may by regulations made by statutory instrument require magistrates’ courts committees to submit to him such reports and plans, in relation to matters for which they are responsible, as may be prescribed.

(2)Any report or plan required by regulations under this section—

(a)shall be prepared in the prescribed manner, after such consultation as may be prescribed, and within such time as may be prescribed,

(b)shall be in the prescribed form,

(c)shall be sent to such persons as may be prescribed, and

(d)shall be made available to the public on payment of such reasonable fee as the magistrates’ courts committee may in any case determine.

(3)The Lord Chancellor may direct any one or more magistrates’ courts committees to produce such additional reports or plans in relation to matters for which they are responsible as may be specified in the direction.]

Textual Amendments

F55S. 24C inserted (1.11.1994) by 1994 c. 29, s.74; S.I. 1994/2594, art.3

Back to top

Options/Help

Print Options

You have chosen to open The Whole Act

The Whole Act you have selected contains over 200 provisions and might take some time to download. You may also experience some issues with your browser, such as an alert box that a script is taking a long time to run.

Would you like to continue?

You have chosen to open The Whole Act as a PDF

The Whole Act you have selected contains over 200 provisions and might take some time to download.

Would you like to continue?

Close

Legislation is available in different versions:

Latest Available (revised):The latest available updated version of the legislation incorporating changes made by subsequent legislation and applied by our editorial team. Changes we have not yet applied to the text, can be found in the ‘Changes to Legislation’ area.

Original (As Enacted or Made): The original version of the legislation as it stood when it was enacted or made. No changes have been applied to the text.

Point in Time: This becomes available after navigating to view revised legislation as it stood at a certain point in time via Advanced Features > Show Timeline of Changes or via a point in time advanced search.

Close

See additional information alongside the content

Geographical Extent: Indicates the geographical area that this provision applies to. For further information see ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.

Show Timeline of Changes: See how this legislation has or could change over time. Turning this feature on will show extra navigation options to go to these specific points in time. Return to the latest available version by using the controls above in the What Version box.

Close

Opening Options

Different options to open legislation in order to view more content on screen at once

Close

More Resources

Access essential accompanying documents and information for this legislation item from this tab. Dependent on the legislation item being viewed this may include:

  • the original print PDF of the as enacted version that was used for the print copy
  • lists of changes made by and/or affecting this legislation item
  • confers power and blanket amendment details
  • all formats of all associated documents
  • correction slips
  • links to related legislation and further information resources
Close

Timeline of Changes

This timeline shows the different points in time where a change occurred. The dates will coincide with the earliest date on which the change (e.g an insertion, a repeal or a substitution) that was applied came into force. The first date in the timeline will usually be the earliest date when the provision came into force. In some cases the first date is 01/02/1991 (or for Northern Ireland legislation 01/01/2006). This date is our basedate. No versions before this date are available. For further information see the Editorial Practice Guide and Glossary under Help.

Close

More Resources

Use this menu to access essential accompanying documents and information for this legislation item. Dependent on the legislation item being viewed this may include:

  • the original print PDF of the as enacted version that was used for the print copy
  • correction slips

Click 'View More' or select 'More Resources' tab for additional information including:

  • lists of changes made by and/or affecting this legislation item
  • confers power and blanket amendment details
  • all formats of all associated documents
  • links to related legislation and further information resources