§ Mr. Silkinasked the Attorney-General whether his attention has been drawn to the annual report of the Birmingham Law Society, from which it appears that the work of the Poor Persons Committee has practically come to a standstill owing to the lack of counsel and applicants have had to be informed that nearly two years must elapse before their cases can be sent out to a solicitor; whether in other areas such as the area of the Bournemouth and District Law Society, great difficulty is experienced in dealing with poor persons cases owing to the lack of solicitors and counsel; and whether he will cause inquiries to be made and take action to provide for the administration of justice speedily by securing the reservation of lawyers over a certain age or otherwise?
§ The Attorney-GeneralI am aware of and greatly regret the difficulties which the hon. Member describes. Arrangements are already in force with respect to postponement of the calling up of solicitors where their services are required for the administration of justice. I realise the importance of this matter and have been in touch with the Bar Council with a view to their considering this matter so far as barristers are concerned and putting their information and suggestions before my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour.