§ Mr. Alex Carlileasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if, having regard to the conduct of the British honorary consul in Perpignan and others, he will provide funds for the representation by senior and junior counsel of the two British complainants as co-prosecutors in the trial for raping them of Marc Diaz and Frank Noguera, and for the prompt payment to them of an ex gratia payment in lieu of criminal injuries compensation; if he will provide further funds for the same complainants as co-prosecutors of Mr. Paul Kutner; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EggarSuccessive Governments have confirmed that public funds are not available to assist those engaging in legal proceedings abroad. Complainants must seek legal advice on the availability or otherwise of legal aid in the country concerned. Awards under the criminal injuries compensation scheme are made on an ex gratia basis and apply only to cases arising in Great Britain or on British registered ships or aeroplanes. Charges against Mr. Kutner in the United Kingdom have not been pursued and he has not been charged in France.