Mr. Jeger:

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what are the normal hours during which trials at quarter sessions are held.

This is a matter for local arrangement, and practice may vary in different parts of the country. I understand that it is not unusual for a court to sit from 10.30 a.m. until 4.30 p.m., or later, if necessary.

Mr. Jeger:

Is my right hon. Friend aware that recent trials of prisoners at Winchester Quarter Sessions have been proceeding from 10 a.m. to nearly 10 p.m., and will he make representations, to whoever are responsible for these late sittings, that it is not in the strict interests of justice?

I will inquire into that, and any other particular case that may be brought to my notice.