§ Lord Haskelasked Her Majesty's Government:
When they intend to introduce the Criminal Defence Service. [HL2500]
§ The Lord Chancellor (Lord Irvine of Lairg)I have agreed to a request from the Legal Services Commission to postpone the introduction of the Criminal Defence Service from 2 October 2000 to 2 April 2001. This will allow additional time for preparation by the professions and for implementation of the new arrangements by criminal24WA defence lawyers. The Legal Services Commission is notifying the professions by letter accordingly. This delay will have no substantial effects on the reform programme, including the development of the salaried defender service. Consultation papers on the establishment of the salaried defender service and on the choice of representative will be published shortly.