§ 12. Rev. Ian Paisleyasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the total amount of money paid out by legal aid in defence of those charged with terrorist offences during the last three years; and what payments of legal aid are still outstanding for the same period.
§ Mr. ConcannonIt would not be possible to provide the information required without disproportionate effort, as the legal aid records do not distinguish between terrorist and non-terrorist offences.
It is estimated that the amount at present due to solicitors and counsel in respect of claims received for criminal legal aid since 20th January 1975 is £214,000. All claims received before that date have been paid.