Context
The MP noted a farm in Harpenden reporting 56 fly-tipping incidents over five years, with the most recent incident costing the farmer around £40,000.
Question
From the lack of a rural crime strategy to reduced access to legal aid, our rural communities are being left behind. In Harpenden, one farm alone has reported 76 fly-tipping incidents in five years, with the injustice that the most recent incident is costing the farmer around £40,000. Proper legal support for victims of rural crime could make a world of difference, so how are the Government ensuring fair access for our rural communities, including face-to-face legal aid support?
Answer from Sarah Sackman (Minister of State, Ministry of Justice)
The hon. Lady is absolutely right that we need to ensure access to legal aid for those who live in rural areas. The Legal Aid Agency was satisfied that legal aid services across all categories are adequate in her constituency of Harpenden and Berkhamsted. Digital technology is transforming access to justice through remote consultations and Government-funded websites, such as Advicenow. I encourage her constituents to access legal aid through those means, as well as through local providers.
Not addressed: The minister did not provide specific details on how the government is ensuring fair access to face-to-face legal aid support in rural areas.
How: Discussed Digital Technology Instead Of Face-To-Face Support
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