HC Deb 12 June 1997 vol 295 cc548-9W
Mr. Dismore

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what plans he has to use his powers under section 1 of the Damages Act 1996 to set a rate of return for use in personal injury claims. [2556]

Mr. Hoon

It is important that this power is used in a way which supports the interests of all parties. The Lord Chancellor will take note of the outcome of Wells v. Wells, Thomas v. Brighton Health Authority and Page v. Sheerness Steel, which have been granted leave of appeal in the House of Lords. He will consult interested parties before exercising the power.

Mr. Dismore

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what plans he has to bring into force section 10 of the Civil Evidence Act 1995. [2555]

Mr. Hoon

The Lord Chancellor will bring into force section 10 of the Civil Evidence Act following the outcome of Wellsv. Wells, Thomas v. Brighton Health Authority and Page v. Sheerness Steel, which have been granted leave of appeal in the House of Lords, and consultation with interested parties on the use of particular discount rates for calculating awards in personal injury claims.