asked the Attorney-General if he will take steps to prevent contributions from those granted legal aid being required prior to the case concerned being heard; and if he will limit contributions to orders made after the court hearing.

Ministerial responsibility for criminal legal aid was transferred to the Lord Chancellor on 1 July. He intends to review all aspects of criminal legal aid, including contributions, but there can be no question of postponing payment until after the hearing.

asked the Attorney-General if he will review the arrangements by which the Law Society recoups legal aid payments in matrimonial cases.

I assume the hon. Member is referring to the charge on property recovered or preserved in proceedings. The operation of this charge is being considered by the Legal Aid Advisory Committee.