THIS decision was made at a hearing on Directions. Mr Irving and Mr Julius had discussed the matter outside the Court, and Mr Irving had diffidently volunteered to Mr Julius, on the advice of his own legal experts, that he felt the case should be heard by a Judge alone.
   Depending on the identity of the judge, which is not known in advance, this is a sound decision for a plaintiff, as judges are less emotional in their approach to a case; Mr Irving anticipated that if a jury-trial was ordered, the Defence would fill the witness box with survivors telling their tall and often harrowing tales.
   Mr Irving was surprised when Julius agreed so easily to this suggestion. Had he known the identify of the judge, and his legal background, Mr Irving would perhaps not have made the suggestion.