Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Criminal legal aid

12 October 2022 · Ministry of Justice

Proposed by Brandon Lewis Con Great Yarmouth

Justice & Courts

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

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • The Department has laid a Statutory Instrument to increase fees for existing criminal cases in backlog from October 31, 2022.
  • Additional funding of 7 million is allocated for case preparation and pre-recorded cross-examinations by early 2023.
  • A further 5 million per year will be provided for youth court fees starting from the 2024/25 financial year.

Issue summary

The statement addresses the resolution of disputes with the Criminal Bar Association regarding criminal legal aid.

Action requested

The Department has laid a Statutory Instrument that increases fees for existing cases in backlog from October 31, 2022. Additional funding of £7 million is allocated for case preparation and pre-recorded cross-examinations by early 2023. A further £5 million per year will be provided for youth court fees starting from the 2024/25 financial year. The Government also proposes a new Criminal Legal Aid Advisory Board to discuss system operation and make recommendations.

Key facts

  • The CBA membership voted in favour of an offer on criminal legal aid.
  • A Statutory Instrument was laid on 11 October, increasing fees for existing cases from 31 October 2022.
  • Additional investment of £28 million for advocates and £14 million for litigators over the Spending Review period is announced.
  • An additional £7 million funding will be available by early 2023 for case preparation and pre-recorded cross-examinations.
  • A new Criminal Legal Aid Advisory Board will hold its first meeting in October.
  • The Government will respond to remaining consultation elements by the end of November, focusing on solicitors' reforms.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy