Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
There are concerns about cuts to legal aid and the narrowing of its scope, which have left many unable to resolve issues without being able to afford legal representation.
Whether she plans to widen the scope of cases covered by legal aid. Cuts to legal aid and the narrowing of its scope have meant that people are no longer able to get early legal advice. Will the Minister consider restoring legal aid to pre-2012 levels for all areas of civil law?
Legal aid is vital for access to justice. We are looking at evidence from the civil legal aid review on demand, fees, and geographic provision. I will consider raising administrative issues with the Legal Aid Agency's chief executive.
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Assessment & feedback
Commitment to restore legal aid levels or specific bureaucratic changes was not given
Looking At Evidence
Raising Issues
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns persist about the impact of legal aid cuts, making it difficult for those unable to afford representation. There is a need to review administrative issues that hinder small firms.
Cuts to legal aid have left people without early legal advice. Will she restore legal aid to pre-2012 levels for civil law and review the Legal Aid Agency bureaucracy?
Early legal advice is crucial; we are looking at how to improve access. However, financial challenges mean careful consideration is needed. I will raise administrative issues with the Legal Aid Agency's chief executive.
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Assessment & feedback
Commitment to review bureaucracy was not given
Financial Challenges
Raising Issues
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Victims lacking financial resources and access to legal aid are seeking justice, raising concerns about the need for cross-border discussions.
What discussions has the Minister had with the Policing and Justice Minister in Northern Ireland to ensure that legal aid available here can also be made available there?
I have yet to hold those conversations but hope to do so in the coming months.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment or timeline not given
Hope To Discuss
Response accuracy