§ 82. Sir M. Sueterasked the Attorney-General whether in view of the convictions since 1935 in the criminal courts of solicitors for fraudulent conversion of clients' money, he will take steps to require solicitors to deposit in local banks, in the joint names of themselves and of the Public. Trustee, such funds and securities as solicitors deal with for clients, so that valuable property cannot be converted without the cognizance of the Public Trustee?
§ The Attorney-GeneralAs I stated in reply to the hon. Member for Newcastle 1082 (Sir J. Leech) on 10th June, the question of the steps to be taken in these matters is under consideration by the Law Society, who hope shortly to formulate proposals. I do not think that the suggestion made by my hon. and gallant Friend would be practicable.
§ Mr. PetherickWill the Attorney-General encourage the Law Society to take steps at the earliest possible moment to prevent such cases of fraud as have appeared in the newspapers and which cast discredit on an honourable profession through the lapses of a few members?
§ The Attorney-GeneralI have stated more than once that the Law Society, with whom I have been in touch have had this matter under active consideration for some months, and they hope to put forward proposals shortly which will commend themselves to the House.
§ The Attorney-GeneralI cannot say yet what they will include.