(13 years, 1 month ago)
Commons ChamberWe have just commissioned research on those topics, and there will also be a post-impact assessment within three years.
Further to Question 7, will the changes to civil litigation make it easier or more difficult to take action against multinational companies? The consensus among non-governmental organisations is that it will be more difficult.
People will still be able to be assessed by solicitors to decide whether they are prepared to represent them in multinational actions.
(14 years, 2 months ago)
Commons ChamberEngland and Wales have by far the most generous legal aid provision in the whole world. For example, Spain spends £2.55 a head, France spends £3.31, and Germany spends £4.69. Countries with a similar system, such as New Zealand, spend on average £8 a head, compared with £38 a head in England and Wales.
On the issue of pleural plaques, when does the Minister expect to make the first payments under the new compensation scheme?
The mechanics of the scheme are being consulted on, and we hope to start making payments towards the end of this month.