HC Deb 13 June 1967 vol 748 c53W
58. Sir W. Teeling

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs why the ordinary Hong Kong citizen is only allowed legal aid in capital cases; what other remedies remain in law for a poor Hong Kong citizen; and why defendants cannot elect to be tried by jury in cases in which they are liable to prison terms of up to five years.

Mrs. Hart

Since 1962 legal aid has been available in Hong Kong to persons committed for trial before the Supreme Court in all indictable offences, and to an appellant in a criminal appeal before the Full Court.

In January this year legal aid was introduced in a wide range of civil proceedings before the district and higher courts.

I am consulting the Governor about the third part of the Question and will write to the hon. Member.

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