It is not surprising that the magistracy is becoming less diverse in terms of social class, even though in terms of gender and minority ethnic membership great strides have been made (Report, 7 August).
When I joined a busy central London bench in 1985, there were many magistrates with titles – they seem to be much diminished these days – but equally, there were many from a trade union background who brought a wealth of experience and great diversity to the bench. Sadly, the privatised railways, Post Office and other industries make it almost impossible for their staff on modest, or even not-so-modest, incomes to volunteer for this most worthwhile of public service.
Perhaps the way forward would be for the government to insist that large employers release a certain number of staff at all levels to serve as justices. The cost would be pennies in relation to their total profit.
Jane Lawson (retired JP)
London
• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com
• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters
