§ 31 and 32. Mr. William Wellsasked the Attorney-General (1) how many of the local committees constituted under the Legal Aid Scheme did not hold their inaugural meeting in October;
(2) how many of the local committees constituted under the Legal Aid Scheme failed to set up certifying committees during October.
§ The Attorney-GeneralMay I first remind the House that the Legal Aid and Advice Act, 1949, charges the Law Society with the administration of the Legal Aid Scheme subject to the general guidance of my noble Friend the Lord Chancellor. While, therefore, I am very glad to supply the House with all reasonable information, it will be recognised that I cannot accept the responsibility of answering for the day-to-day administration of the scheme. Subject to that caveat for the future, I readily give the answers to this and the following Question, which, with permission, I will take 1368 together. By 31st October all the 112 local committees had held their inaugural meeting and, in accordance with paragraph 9 of the Law Society's Scheme, had arranged for the summoning of certifying committees.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonCan my right hon. and learned Friend arrange for the deposit in the Library of a complete list of the addresses of the area and local committees, for the benefit and convenience of hon. Members?
§ The Attorney-GeneralYes, Sir, I will see if that can be done.
§ Sir Herbert WilliamsIs the reason for the right hon. and learned Gentleman declining to answer questions, that the industry to which he belongs has been nationalised?