In advance of the formation of the unified court authority in 2004, the Department for Constitutional Affairs will be holding discussions with the Association of Greater London Magistrates and a number of other organisations involved in the provision of criminal justice services. The topic is likely to include court provision across London. Sir Alan Beith (BerwickuponTweed, Liberal Democrat): To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Department for Constitutional Affairs what discussions he has had with representatives of the Greater London Magistrates'Court Association about court provision across London in advance of the formation of the unified courts authority in 2004.

Julian Brazier: The Asbestos Testing Woolwich ernment's purpose in removing the magistracy from the control of local authorities is to promote greater efficiency and effectiveness of local court services. It is therefore clearly important that before establishing a unified Courts Authority further consideration should be given as to how court provision should best be organised in each local authority area. As part of this work, I have already discussed with representatives of the Greater London Magistrates'Court Association the future provision of courts in their area and we shall be addressing these issues further with all interested parties as part of the ongoing process of preparing for the establishment of the unified authority.

I understand. Mr Deputy Speaker, I am sure that the whole House will join me in welcoming the announcement of a unified court system for London for next year. My officials are discussing with the Greater London Magistrates'Court Association how best to develop court provision in advance of that date and before the unified courts authority is established. We have also begun discussions with the Lord Chancellor's Department about the role of clerks of petty sessions in working alongside the magistrates'courts.