HC Deb 11 May 1966 vol 728 cc395-6
36. Mr. Fisher

asked the Attorney-General whether he will take steps to reduce the cost of litigation to those not entitled to legal aid.

The Attorney-General (Sir Elwyn Jones)

My noble Friend the Lord Chancellor is always anxious to take whatever steps are practicable to reduce the cost of litigation. For example, a committee was recently set up under the chairmanship of Lord Justice Winn to consider the possibility of introducing a simpler and more speedy procedure for the trial of actions for personal injuries. The Law Commission is also considering simplification of the law in various fields. Other action is also under consideration.

Mr. Fisher

Would the right hon. and learned Gentleman agree that, although British justice is absolutely fair, it is so expensive if one loses in the High Court that only the richest and the poorest in the land can afford to go to the High Court? What positive proposals has he for dealing with this strange but in some ways very serious problem?

The Attorney-General

I think the comparable figures will show that the cost of administration of justice in this country, both to the State and to the litigant, is probably less than that in any comparable legal system, but I have indicated certain measures which my noble Friend is contemplating. This is very much in our minds.

Mr. Shinwell

How long is this consideration going to continue? When are we going to get some action to prevent lawyers, barristers and solicitors from getting away with the swag?

The Attorney-General

Lawyers receive reasonable remuneration for the indispensable work they do.