§ Mr. Leeasked the Attorney-General what was the total number of unsuccessful applications for legal aid in civil cases during 1975; what were the corresponding figures for 1973 and 1974; what is his estimate of such applications for the current year; in how many of such cases were grounds for refusal the fact that applicant's income and resources exceeded the stipulated minimum; and if he will make a statement on the need to avoid hardship to persons of modest means.
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe figures are as follows:
Applications received for legal aid in civil cases Total applications refused Applications refused on financial grounds 1973–74 266,774 25,653 13,146 1974–75 288,674 23,228 10,466 1975–76 306,540 25,395 10,950 It is not yet possible to estimate the corresponding figures for the current year, 1976–77.
My noble Friend is well aware of the need to use available resources to avoid hardship to persons of modest means, and a further increase has recently been made in the financial limits of eligibility for legal aid. From 15th November, legal aid will be available to a person whose disposable income does not exceed £2,085 a year, but may be refused if his disposable capital exceeds £1,400.