§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Attorney-General whether he is aware of the concern felt by the general public at the level of fees and payments made to the legal profession, the cost of obtaining justice and the fact that poor people are often denied justice because of their lack of financial resources; and why he will not recommend the appointment of a Royal Commission to investigate all these matters.
§ The Attorney-GeneralIt is the purpose of the Legal Aid and Advice Act, 1949, and of the Legal Advice and Assistance Act, 1972, Part I and III of which will come into force on 2nd April, 1973, to provide legal representation, advice and assistance to those who cannot afford it for themselves. The Advisory Committee considers the operation of the Acts and advises my noble friend the Lord Chancellor upon it. The level of fees to solicitors is controlled by procedures laid down in the Solicitors Act, 1957. Where legal fees are questioned by the client there are facilities for getting them taxed. In these circumstances, there is no need for a Royal Commission.