Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill

I am not sure. I do not think that I have time to consider the hon. Gentleman's point properly and give him a fair answer. It worries me that, although the Government are trying to save money, not providing advice and assistance at this early stage will cost them much more in the long run. Excluding housing law and welfare benefits will mean the most vulnerable in society suffering the most. The Chairman of the Bar said:"““The Government has failed to listen to the views expressed by many in the judiciary, the legal profession and voluntary organisations in formulating its proposals on legal aid. ""Legal aid will be withdrawn from whole swathes of areas of law and access to justice will be systematically deprived.””" I agree entirely. He does not have an axe to grind. He has been in the profession for a terribly long time and should be respected for his professional opinion. I could mention many solicitors in my area who have contacted me in recent days to warn me of the dangers of lack of access to justice. They make those points not because they are worried about not buying the next flash car, but because they represent people and they care about those clients. I mean that sincerely.