§ Mr. BerminghamTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what is his policy with regard to the granting of legal representation in criminal cases where a defendant's liberty is at risk.
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Mr. John M. TaylorIt is for the courts to decide whether to grant criminal legal aid in accordance with the statutory criteria laid down in the Legal Aid Act 1988. One of the factors to be taken into account in determining whether it is in the interests of justice that legal aid for representation be granted is whether the offence is such that, if proved, it is likely that the court would impose a sentence which would deprive the accused of his liberty.
§ Mr. BerminghamTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will set out the charges which are classified as less serious charges, susceptible to refusal of legal aid under the new arrangements; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. John M. TaylorI refer the hon. Member to the answer that I gave him on 19 June 1992,Official Report, column 681.