WIREDGOV

During its passage through the House of Lords, The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill was heavily amended.

The amendments meant that the disabled, vulnerable, victims of domestic violence and brain damaged children will be protected from the worst of the legal aid cuts. But now, in a worrying reflection of what happened to the welfare reform bill, all the good work could be undone when the bill goes back to the House of Commons on 17 April.

The fact that the government suffered record-breaking defeats in the House of Lords was due in no small part to the campaigning efforts of those who lobbied peers as part of Justice for All’s Pair up with a Peer initiative. Now we are asking PCS members to ensure that as many MPs as possible are aware of why the government should accept these amends.

One particular amendment was moved by former Paralympian baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson to allow a person who is eligible for legal aid to access advice in a range of different forms including face to face. Overturning this amendment would mean the most vulnerable people would be forced to access legal advice through a call centre.

This is the last chance you have to influence this important piece of legislation. Write to your MP through http://act.justice-for-all.org.uk/lobby/15 where you can find your MP's contact details and a model letter. For more information go to pcs.org.uk/legalaidbill

Remember to let us know any response you receive. Contact PCS campaigns officer James Davies on 020 7801 2820 or james@pcs.org.uk