Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 9
9
Not Addressed
Remote legal aid provision's suitability for vulnerable groups remains unclear without data.
Conclusion
LAA explained that for some places where there are local gaps in legal aid providers, people could seek remote advice from providers elsewhere in the country, providers in neighbouring areas or via its telephone service. MoJ stated there were some benefits of remote provision for many in providing a more discreet service and in ease of providing interpreter services. It also told us that remote provision could be beneficial in bringing more providers into the market. LAA does not collect data on the extent to which firms are providing their services remotely.22 However, it accepted that remote provision would not be suitable for everyone.23
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Spring 2026. The Legal Aid Agency (LAA) monitors the supply and distribution of providers; holds regular qualitative discussions with providers which includes their workload; and liaises with the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) if a policy remedy ought to be considered.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
1.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Spring 2026 1.2 The Legal Aid Agency (LAA) monitors the supply and distribution of providers; holds regular qualitative discussions with providers which includes their workload; and liaises with the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) if a policy remedy ought to be considered. MoJ and LAA will though review the current data collected on demand for, and access to, legal aid, including assessing the methodology for collecting; quality; usability; and completeness of that data. MoJ will identify opportunities to make improvements to data collection and visualisation (such as producing a new series of maps similar to those produced by National Audit Office), and consider any opportunities to enrich insights used for monitoring, where practicable, with other relevant data. MoJ will consider commissioning independent research on this point. It is important that data collection minimises any burdens placed on providers. 1.3 MoJ and LAA will also review their approach to monitoring whether people are able to find a legal aid provider to take on their case (if eligible). MoJ and LAA will consider alternative methods for doing this and look to establish a more robust evidence base on barriers to access, including capacity related factors. Again, any approach should take into account the burdens placed on providers.