HC Deb 23 March 1999 vol 328 cc135-6W
Mr. Dismore

To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department what plans he has to promote alternative dispute resolution; and if he will make a statement. [77872]

Mr. Hoon

This Government's radical programme of reform to modernise the civil justice system will encourage the use of alternative dispute resolution in appropriate cases through the exercise of the courts' new case management powers, the reform of civil legal aid, and the development of the Community Legal Service. What further steps, if any, should be undertaken to promote alternative dispute resolution is a matter currently under consideration.