§ Mr. Bartlettasked the Attorney-General whether, in view of the decreasing number of solicitors and counsel available for carrying through business on behalf of poor persons, particularly in the case of divorces, he will, after consultation with the appropriate legal bodies, set up machinery to enable such poor persons to have their business dealt with without delay?
§ The Attorney-GeneralAs I stated in the reply to my hon. Friend, the Member for Oxford City (Mr. Hogg), on 22nd September, the arrangements for assisting poor persons in litigation, and particularly persons in the fighting Forces in divorce cases, have been greatly extended. In addition, divorce cases have been heard throughout the vacation, and the organisation set up by the Law Society for meeting difficulties which have arisen through the shortage of available solicitors is being expanded. The importance of getting these cases dealt with without undue delay and of overcoming the difficulties referred to in the Question is fully appreciated, and my Noble Friend the Lord Chancellor, who is giving special attention to the matter, will continue to promote improvements in every way possible.