Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Covid-19: Pro Bono Legal Services

Thursday 4 February 2021 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Damien Moore inquired about steps to support pro bono legal services during the covid-19 outbreak.
  • The Minister expressed gratitude to legal professionals for their continued pro bono work during the crisis.
  • The Minister assured Damien Moore that constituents can feel confident in accessing pro bono support despite the pandemic.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Damien Moore Con
Justice & Courts
Context

The question arises from concerns about the impact of the pandemic on pro bono legal services, which are crucial for those in need.

Question

What steps she is taking to support pro bono legal services during the covid-19 outbreak. I am concerned about how my constituents can feel confident that they can still access the pro bono support they need despite the pandemic.

Answer from Michael Ellis

I have heard directly from members of both my pro bono committee and the Public Legal Education Committee on the impact of the pandemic on their work. The legal profession has continued valiantly to undertake pro bono work throughout this crisis, and I would like to restate my gratitude to all those who have volunteered their time and experience during this difficult time. My hon. Friend asks a good question, and his constituents should feel confident. I was heartened to hear of the overwhelming number of legal professionals across the country who have stepped forward to offer assistance during the pandemic.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer does not provide specific steps or commitments for supporting pro bono services during the pandemic.

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Q2 Damien Moore Con
Context

The question arises from concerns about the impact of the pandemic on pro bono legal services, which are crucial for those in need.

Question

May I ask my right hon. and learned Friend how my constituents can feel confident that they can still access the pro bono support they need despite the pandemic?

Answer from Michael Ellis

My hon. Friend asks a good question, and his constituents should feel confident. I was heartened to hear of the overwhelming number of legal professionals across the country who have stepped forward to offer assistance during the pandemic. It is a true testament to the very nature of pro bono; as a tool, it is there to give back and help those most in need. I heard from members of my pro bono committee in September about the impact of the pandemic on their services, and the resilience and flexibility that they have shown in the face of such adversity is very impressive and much appreciated.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer does not provide specific steps or commitments for supporting pro bono services during the pandemic.

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)