HC Deb 06 April 1925 vol 182 cc1831-2
88. Dr. SALTER

asked the Home Secretary whether a committee has yet been appointed to inquire into the question of adequate legal assistance for poor persons in the lower Courts; and, if not, whether, in view of the urgency of the question, it will be appointed and begin its inquiry as soon as possible?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

As this answer is rather a long one, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

The Lord Chancellor and myself are appointing a committee, under the chairmanship of Mr. Justice Finlay, to inquire what facilities exist for giving to poor persons advice with respect to their legal rights and liabilities and aid in the conduct of legal proceedings, whether civil or criminal (other than such civil proceedings in the Supreme Court as fall within the scope of the existing Poor Persons' Rules), and to report what, if any, further steps should be taken in respect to these matters. A preliminary meeting is being held to-morrow with a view to some preparatory inquiries being issued during the Easter Recess. The composition of the committee is not quite complete, but I hope that the names will be published this week.