The Commission on Justice in Wales

Part of 2. Questions to the Counsel General and the Minister for the Constitution – in the Senedd at 2:59 pm on 20 October 2021.

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Photo of Jack Sargeant Jack Sargeant Labour 2:59, 20 October 2021

I thank the Counsel General for that answer, and I'm sure Members will agree with me right across the benches in this Chamber that cuts to legal aid by the UK Government mean it is harder for ordinary people to access justice. I'm sure Members from right across the Chamber agree with me that access to justice should not just be for the wealthy. The Welsh Government does fund organisations to provide legal advice, and this really is a lifeline to many, and it is vital that that money spent is done so efficiently. Now, Counsel General, the 'Justice in Wales for the People of Wales' report recommended that, and I quote:

'The funding for legal aid and for the third sector providing advice and assistance should be brought together in Wales to form a single fund under the strategic direction of an independent body'.

Counsel General, do you agree with that recommendation and, if so, how quickly can we implement this recommendation?