§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether police officers are obliged to inform suspects of their right to receive free legal advice; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter LloydUnder section 58 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 police officers are obliged to inform suspects of their right to legal advice, but not obliged to inform them that the advice is free. The revised code of practice for the detention, treatment and questioning of persons by police officers, which my right hon. and learned Friend hopes to lay before the House shortly, will require the police to advise suspects that legal advice is free.