Clause 22 - Appointment etc.
Courts Bill [Lords]
11:00 am
Mr Nick Hawkins (Surrey Heath, Conservative)
It is helpful to hear some reassurance from the Minister. I know that concerns are sometimes expressed, not least by the hon. Member for Hendon (Mr. Dismore), who is not on this Committee, about secret soundings. I see the Government Whip nodding—on many occasions in the Chamber, and no doubt elsewhere, she has heard the hon. Gentleman wax lyrical on that subject. Nevertheless, the Minister's reassurances are of some help. We do not want to constrain consultation, but it is wise for consultation to be wide whenever there are judicial appointments. In light of the Minister's comments, I beg to ask leave to withdraw the amendment.
Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.
Question proposed, That the clause stand part of the Bill.