Savage cut in legal aid

Published: 1 July, 2011

• THE Tory-led government has cut more than £350million from the legal aid budget, which means taking away free legal advice for ordinary people on everyday problems with debt, employment, housing and welfare benefits – just when they are being hit hardest by cuts. 

Last week, I joined MP Jeremy Corbyn and Islington Law Centre to protest against the government’s decision to savagely cut legal aid – a decision that will hit Islington harder than almost anywhere else in the country.

Getting the right advice early on can be the difference that keeps families together in their homes, in work and in education. 

That’s why Islington Labour has made a difference by finding extra money from our own budget to open a Citizens Advice Bureau and keep our local law centre going despite receiving the largest cuts in London. 

More than 1,000 Islington residents have already joined me in demanding Justice for All.

If you agree that everyone should have access to legal aid, then join the campaign at www.justice-for-all.org.uk 

CLLR CATHERINE WEST
Labour leader, Islington Council