Bar Council welcomes 'fundamental look' at legal aid system

23 June 2010

The Bar Council, which represents barristers in England and Wales, has welcomed the announcement of a comprehensive assessment of the legal aid system.
 
The assessment was announced today by the Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice. The Government is expected to seek further views in the autumn.
 
Chairman of the Bar, Nicholas Green QC, said:
 
"We welcome the fact that the Government is examining the legal aid system. We look forward to making a substantial contribution to the work that is being undertaken and we will work with Ministers in this regard.   I am pleased to see the acknowledgement of the role that legal aid plays in protecting the vulnerable in society, and in ensuring access to justice.   We will work to assist Ministers to make the system more efficient“.
 
 
Ends
Notes to Editors
  1. Further information from the Bar Council Press Office on 020 7222 2525.
  2. The General Council of the Bar is the Approved Regulator of the Bar of England and Wales. It discharges its regulatory functions through the independent Bar Standards Board. It represents the Bar by:
  • Promoting the specialist advocacy and advisory services of barristers;
  • Ensuring access to justice on terms that are fair both to the public and practitioners;
  • Promoting the high quality training and professional development of all barristers to ensure the highest standards of practice and ethical behaviour;
  • Working for the efficient and cost-effective administration of justice;
  • Encouraging access to, and diversity within, the profession so that it is open to all people of ability whatever their background; and
  • Strengthening and developing the work and the values of the Bar at home and abroad.