HC Deb 25 February 1965 vol 707 c143W
71. Sir S. McAdden

asked the Minister without Portfolio what has been the cost, to the nearest convenient date, of the Legal Aid Scheme; and how many persons have been assisted by it.

Sir Eric Fletcher

The Legal Aid Scheme started in October, 1950. Down to the 31st March, 1964, the net cost falling on public funds was £22.85 million. This is after taking account of the contributions by assisted persons, and costs recovered from the losing party. A total of 608,861 people have been assisted by the Legal Aid Scheme.