Its criminal jurisdiction covers all offenses punishable by a fine not exceeding 25 piasters. It has the right to sentence to 24 hours imprisonment or a fine of 25 piasters anyone who engages in a minor altercation or anyone who gives false testimony during a period permitted by law. Sentences of imprisonment only may be appealed to the District Judge.

The local courts have been particularly advised to observe local customs and traditions and to make their judgments conform to them.

Procedures have been simplified as much as possible. Parties are generally required to appear in person before these courts. A local court cannot hear a case unless the parties reside within its jurisdiction. The purpose of this is to limit this jurisdiction to farmers. Accordingly, the local courts have become the first level in the judicial hierarchy, replacing the central courts which handled some of their work. The central courts will be relieved by the establishment of local courts in places where they are needed. Matters outside the jurisdiction of the local courts will be referred to the District Judge from whom they were originally taken.

Time has not yet allowed for an opinion to be formed on the progression of this new system. It appears to be proceeding well, with notables taking their duties seriously and showing great interest. It is a cause for satisfaction that the Ministry of Justice has received few complaints regarding their judgments.

Last year, I referred to the system of contracts with some European judges in the Native Court of Appeal and stated that the government was preparing a project to amend this system while preserving the principle of irremovability. This project has progressed. It stipulates that contracts should be limited to individuals who have not previously served the government, for a period of two or three years to complete their suitability for the specific demands of government service in Egypt. After that, if they are appointed as judges, they become irremovable. The new law has led to a significant improvement in the conditions of judges in the Court of Appeal, with an increase in salary of 200 pounds per year. The new law also allows for a judge to be retired if he is unable to perform his duties properly. The decision to retire him will be made by a committee of his colleagues, who will select this option annually. The purpose of this is to ensure financial efficiency.