I propose to take Questions Nos. 190 and 196 together.
The Probate Office is an office of the High Court and management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service, which is independent in exercising its functions under the Courts Service Act 1998.
However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has advised that a probate application has been received in this case and is currently being dealt with. The Courts Service has further advised that the Probate Office has been in touch with the applicant in this matter.
The Courts Service has also informed me that cases can only be given priority or expedited where there is a particular urgency or in extenuating circumstances. In such cases, it is open to the applicant to bring the matter to the attention of the Probate Office.