asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will introduce legislation to clarify pro- viso (ii) of Section 1(2) of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1957, and thereby ensure that statements of mitigation are always read out in full by the clerk to the justices.

My right hon. and learned Friend has no evidence that courts in general are under any misapprehension about the requirements of this proviso, which seem clear.