HC Deb 03 February 1982 vol 17 cc142-3W
Mr. Cryer

asked the Attorney-General if he will introduce legislation to ensure that, where a person sues another for tort and the action fails, the defendant shall be entirely free of any consequential financial burden, particularly in cases where (a) the tort is not subject to legal aid, such as in libel cases, and (b) the unsuccessful plaintiff is in receipt of supplementary or invalidity benefit; and if he will make a statement.

The Solicitor-General

No. It would not be appropriate to provide an indemnity from public funds in these circumstances. The existing law contains adequate safeguards against frivolous and vexatious actions.