§ Mr. EtheringtonTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department how many representations he has received since 1990 from(a) hon. Members, (b) health groups, (c) individuals and (d) legal representatives regarding benzodiazepine litigation and the withdrawal of legal aid certificates. [6321]
§ Mr. Jonathan EvansMy predecessor and I have received many representations about this case from a number of different sources, including those mentioned.
§ Mr. EtheringtonTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department when he or his departmental officials last discussed the benzodiazepine litigation with(a) the legal aid board, (b) the Benzodiazepine Solicitors Group and (c) the Lord Chief Justice. [6328]
§ Mr. EvansMy predecessor and I, and our officials, have been frequently in touch with the legal aid board and interested solicitors about the policy implications of these actions. There have been no discussions on this matter with the Lord Chief Justice.
§ Mr. EtheringtonTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department how many legal aid certificates are presently in force in respect of benzodiazepine litigation; and if he will make a statement. [6327]