§ Lord Brougham and Vauxasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they intend to take any action following the judgment earlier today by the House of Lords in 28WA the case involving the criminal injuries compensation scheme.
The Minister of State, Department of Trade and Industry (Earl Ferrers)We are naturally disappointed at the judgment, which we are studying carefully. However we will of course act in accordance with the law as determined by your Lordships.
The judgment relates to the method of introduction of the tariff scheme, not its merits. The Government remain firmly committed to the tariff approach. They believe a tariff scheme is the only sure way to bring the costs of the scheme under control and to provide a better service to the blameless victims of violent crime.
We therefore intend to introduce as soon as practicable a Bill inviting Parliament to give statutory force to a new tariff scheme as quickly as possible.