HC Deb 21 March 1975 vol 888 cc566-7W
Mr. Kilfedder

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what has been the average time taken for the hearing of a case before the Commissioners and the Detention Appeal Tribunal, where the person was legally represented; and what has been the average cost to public funds of such legal representation.

Mr. Merlyn Rees:

The average times taken for the hearing of cases before the Commissioners and Detention Appeal Tribunal where the detainees were legally represented, and the average costs to public funds of such legal representation, are as follows:

Approximate average time Average Cost
£
First hearings 1 day 295
Reviews 3 cases per day 195
Appeals 4 cases per day 195

The cost of legal representation covers counsel's fees where appropriate and all other costs associated with the defence, including inquiries before the hearing, consultation with the detainee and witnesses.

Mr. Kilfedder

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many cases have been heard by the Commissioners and the Detention Appeal Tribunal where the detainee or internee was legally represented out of public funds.

Mr. Merlyn Rees:

453 such cases have been heard by the Commissioners on first hearing and 374 on review. 158 have been heard by the Detention Appeal Tribunal. The total figure is thus 985.

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