Member

I know that the noble Baroness and I both received training in our own councils in the fulfilment of our quasi-judicial duties. I do not know of another authority where such training is not mandatory, although we can probably both think of some places where it may be less rigorous than others. Clause 50 of this Bill recognises the importance of those who take these quasi-judicial decisions, but does not really explain clearly, in my view, that those decisions are taken in the exercise of powers, functions or decisions by objectively determining facts, applying relevant laws and providing due process to the parties. I really welcome the principle of mandatory training and putting existing best practice on a statutory footing and look forward to the regulations that will prescribe what knowledge and skills will be required in order to pass judgment.