§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will introduce the necessary legislation to enable any person who loses valuables as a result of a robbery or mugging, or is injured in any way, to have the automatic right of suing for damages against the person found guilty of such a crime for a period of 10 years from the sentence, with all legal costs for the action being met from public funds, so far as the claimant is concerned.
§ The Solicitor-GeneralI have been asked to reply.
The proposed legislation would serve no useful purpose. Existing provisions on the use of criminal convictions as evidence in civil actions, on periods of limitation and on legal aid are already adequate for the purpose the hon. Member has in mind.