§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Attorney-General how many letters he has received requesting an increase in the fees offered to barristers carrying out criminal legal aid work.
§ The Attorney-GeneralOne; the Lord Chancellor has received three.
§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Attorney-General if he will set up an advisory committee to examine the methods of remuneration for barristers carrying out criminal legal aid.
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe Government's position is as set out in its response to the Royal Commission on legal services.
§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Attorney-General how many meetings have been held and on what dates between officials from his Department and the Bar over remuneration for barristers carrying out criminal legal aid; whether officials from other Departments were involved; what further meetings are planned and on what dates; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Attorney-GeneralOfficials from the Lord Chancellor's Department met representatives of the Bar on 17 December. That meeting was also attended by officials of my Department and of the Director of Public Prosecutions, because I have responsibility for the level of fees which will be paid to counsel instructed by the Crown Prosecution Service. The Lord Chancellor has told the chairman of the Bar that he wishes to have further discussions.
§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Attorney-General when his Department received a copy of the report from Coopers and Lybrand on remuneration for barristers carrying out criminal legal aid.
§ The Attorney-GeneralI received a copy of the report under cover of a letter from the chairman of the Bar dated 13 September. The Lord Chancellor received a copy on 16 September 1985.