Mr. John M. TaylorTo ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department what assessment he has made of the value for money of duty solicitor schemes. [81568]
§ Mr. HoonWe are constantly reviewing the cost effectiveness of provision of all criminal defence services to ensure that they provide the best possible value for money in terms of quality and price. In addition to assessing all claims from suppliers for duty solicitor services before payment, the level of standby payments is adjusted so that payments relate as closely as possible to the amount of business undertaken by the duty solicitor. From next year all criminal advice and assistance, including the duty solicitor schemes, will be provided under contract. New arrangements for providing duty solicitor services at early first hearings in the magistrates' courts are being tested in a pilot scheme. These arrangements have been monitored and are currently being evaluated.
Mr. John M. TaylorTo ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department what plans he has for the future of existing duty solicitor schemes; and what steps he intends to take to ensure the continuation of 24-hour cover for criminal defendants. [81567]
§ Mr. HoonIt is our intention to continue to provide advice and assistance in broadly the categories for which it is currently available. These categories include advice and assistance provided by duty solicitors at police stations and magistrates' courts. Regulations will make express provision under the Access to Justice legislation.