LEGAL AID AND DEATHS IN CUSTODY

Early day motion 705, tabled 9 June 1999 by Paul Stinchcombe (Labour). Signed by 74 members.

That this House recognises the widespread public disquiet expressed following deaths in state detention or custody; notes that at inquests that follow a death in custody the state or institution will always be represented, at public expense; notes with concern the lack of equality of arms between unrepresented families and the state or institution involved, which perpetuates the view of bias within the system; notes also that members of the Black community are disproportionately represented in such cases, and that the report of the Inquiry into the murder of Stephen Lawrence recommended that 'consideration be given to the provision of legal aid to victims or the families of victims to cover representation at an inquest in appropriate cases'; and calls upon the Government to guarantee public funding for families of victims following a death in custody or detention.

Signatures by party: Labour 48, Liberal Democrat 15, Conservative 4, Labour/Co-operative 3, Plaid Cymru 3, Unknown 1.