asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many quarter sessions courts are in operation in Birmingham; and to what extent delay in dealing with outstanding cases is due to the shortage of courts.

I understand that the Birmingham City Quarter Sessions sits in two or three courts as required. It does not appear, therefore, that there is a shortage of courts of quarter sessions in Birmingham.

What view does my right hon. Friend take of the Streatfeild Committee Report on a Crown court for Birmingham?

The Streatfeild Committee Report must be well known to hon. Members, and I accept its main conclusions. Certain discussions are at present proceeding about Birmingham. I will keep my hon. Friend informed, but I would rather not comment further at this stage.

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the statement of the Chief Constable of Birmingham to the effect that a large number of crimes are committed while people are out on bail? Does my right hon. Friend agree that this is a circumstance which justifies expedition in dispensing justice?

Yes, but not in relation to this Question.