HC Deb 19 May 1997 vol 294 c17W
32. Mr. Fabricant

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will make it his policy to require a universal £20 application fee for legal aid. [398]

Mr. Hoon

The idea of universal contribution for legal aid came from the hon. Member's party. We propose to take forward our manifesto commitment to review civil justice and legal aid. In any event, the guiding principle in relation to such matters will be access to justice.

34. Mr. Yeo

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what proposals he has to ensure that legal aid is available only to those in genuine need. [400]

Mr. Hoon

We shall be carrying forward our manifesto commitment to a review of civil justice and legal aid, but we shall in any event seek to ensure that legal aid is appropriately targeted.

35. Mr. Burns

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what plans Her Majesty's Government have to expand eligibility for legal aid. [401]

Mr. Hoon

There are no plans at present to expand eligibility for legal aid.

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