Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, with reference to his press release of 23 October 2026 entitled “Thousands step forward in record magistrate recruitment drive” how many of the 3,800 magistrates recruited have a criminal record.

All candidates are assessed for eligibility and good character, and recommendations cannot be considered by the senior Presiding Judge until Disclosure and Barring Service clearance has been received.

This total figure for all candidates could only be obtained at a disproportionate cost.