JUSTICES OF THE PEACE

Grey River Argus, 14 June 1933, Page 5

JUSTICES OF THE PEACE

MINISTER EXPLAINS. (Per Press Association) WELLINGTON, June 13. Referring to-day to the criticism levelled by legal practitioners at the proposal to give more work to Justices or the Peace, Mr Cobbo s&id that his Christchurch remarks had been given a much wider significance than intended. No change in legislation extending the powers of Justices was contemplated. He did not intend to convey that the English practice would be adopted in toto, but, rather he referred to it as a precedent for fuller use of Justices. Owing to the financial position, it had been necessary to reduce magisterial sittings in country courts and that might entail re-allocation of work, and more frequent attendance of Justices. The services of Justices should be utilised as much as possible.