§ 13. Mr. Brittanasked the Attorney-General what discussions he has had with interested bodies regarding the effect which the ending of legal aid in undefended divorce cases will have on the availability of advice in such ancillary matters as custody of children, property arrangements, negotiations with welfare authorities, the future of the matrimonial home, income tax problems and the like; and whether he will make a further statement.
§ The Solicitor-GeneralMy noble Friend will be discussing with interested bodies the matters referred to by the hon. Member. He made it clear in his statement in another place on 15th June that legal advice would continue to be available in all cases as at present, and that legal aid would continue to be available where necessary for ancillary matters.
§ Mr. Lawrenceasked the Attorney General how much money he estimates will be saved over a 12-month period by withdrawing legal aid from undefended divorce cases.
§ The Attorney-GeneralIt is not possible to give a precise estimate of the savings, because of the inherent uncertainties and the number of factors involved, but my noble Friend has no doubt that the present proposals will lead to a significant saving.
§ Mr. Rees-Daviesasked the Attorney-General what consultation there was with interested bodies before the Lord Chancellor's statement of 15th June 1976 proposing to end legal aid for undefended divorce cases.
§ The Attorney-GeneralBefore making his announcement, my noble Friend discussed his proposals with a number of interested parties. Since, however, these70W discussions were confidential it would not be appropriate for him to disclose the details.