TNAG-1589-FCO40-21741-Future-of-the-judiciary-in-Hong-Kong.-Part-1-of-2-1987 — Page 151

considered afresh.

Moreover, the deployment of deputies is expensive

unless it is done to meet a clear need. As I understand the system an

To the extent early decision is taken as to how many courts will sit. that full-time judicial officers cannot man them a number of deputies is then appointed in advance. They remain in their temporary posts throughout the pre-determined period of their assignments even if the There were occasions this workload happens to be below the forecast.

summer when the lists for both the established and deputy judges in the

High Court were extremely light.

18.

more

In suggesting that the use of deputy judges is too high I am In not proposing that

full-time judges take their place. paragraph 6 above a systematic method of bidding for judgepower is set

out.

The bids will be made on the basis of the forecast caseload, the constant application and review of the means of improving efficiency as varicusly recommended in this Report and continuous monitoring. Presiders and administrators will be thinking how they can manage with existing or even reduced establishments by better handling of the flow

of court business.

19.

for

a

The Appointment of Part-time and Deputy Judges

It has been put to me that the Judiciary would be the better

full

for and

of the systematic development

arrangements

appointing part-time judges. There is now a regular system in England and Wales in which many private practitioners, whether they aspire to full-time judicial office or not, serve as part-time judges. They are

called Recorders

are appointed for

on renewable three years

contracts. The minimum commitment is twenty days a year and they are

paid daily fees. These are among the advantages :-

and

(1) the legal profession can make a substantial

contribution:

to judicial needs

and

demonstrate. a commitment to the public

service;

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