§ 47. Mr. Meacherasked the Attorney-General if he will make legal aid available to parents in respect of care proceedings regarding their children.
§ The Attorney-GeneralMy noble and learned Friend the Lord Chancellor made clear the Government's intention in this respect on 17 June last year. A further statement will be made shortly.
§ Mr. MeacherIs it not intolerable that this absolutely necessary measure that was enunciated in the Children Act 1975 and promised again under the present Government is still not implemented because of arguments over cost? How can the Government find the money to compensate people for closed shop episodes up to 10 years ago that are 20 now over and done with and yet not find the money for legal representation for parents threatened with the removal of their children here and now?
§ The Attorney-GeneralA considerable amount of consultation has been necessary, together with other considerations. However, as I have told the hon. Gentleman, a statement will be made shortly.
§ Mr. LawrenceWill my right hon. and learned Friend take cognisance of the fact that the view expressed from the Opposition Benches is not confined to that side of the House?
§ The Attorney-GeneralYes, Sir. I appreciate that.
§ Mr. Arthur DavidsonWhy has there been such a delay? Is it the fault of the Home Office in drawing up the rules? Is it the fault of the Department of Health and Social Security or of the Lord Chancellor's Department? As the Attorney-General will know, the Law Society is most anxious that a date for the implementation of this necessary decision should be announced very soon.
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe Government are fully aware of the need that exists and of the distress that might be caused to parents, for example, by the absence of these provisions. There have been a number of necessary consultations and I hope that a statement will be made shortly.