asked the Minister for Justice the procedure by which Taxing Masters of the High Court are appointed; the qualifications necessary for prospective appointees; the salary and remuneration payable; whether the present arrangements are considered satisfactory from the point of view of delay; when the next appointment will be made; and whether any consideration has been given to having such an appointment made by way of open competition.
Written Answers. - High Court Taxing Masters.
77.
Taxing Masters are appointed by the Government pursuant to the provisions of subsection 3 (3) of part I of the Court Officers Act, 1926, and paragraph 18 of the Eighth Schedule to the Courts (Supplemental Provisions) Act, 1961. Appointments are open to solicitors of no fewer than ten years standing who either are then actually practising or have previously practised for no fewer than ten years.
The salary for the office of Taxing Master is £37,623 per annum from 1 July 1989.
A vacancy for Taxing Master will arise next January. I will be making recommendations to Government in good time for its filling.
I am unaware of any dissatisfaction with the present procedures for the appointment of Taxing Masters. Accordingly the question of making alternative arrangements does not arise.