asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that local authority tenants cannot seek justice in the lower courts; his views on whether the prohibitive costs of higher courts effectively prohibits tenants on low incomes from having their complaints investigated and adjudicated on in the court system; if he has any plans to introduce amending legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Local Authority Tenants.
165.
I am not aware of any general disabilities affecting local authority tenants in relation to access to the district and corcuit courts.
In relation to the cost of court proceedings generally, persons on low incomes, including local authority tenants, may qualify for services under the civil legal aid scheme. I increased the means test limits under the scheme substantially with effect from 29 May 1986. Although disputes affecting interests in or over land are excluded from the scope of the scheme, the board is empowered to grant a legal aid certificate to an applicant who wishes to take proceedings in relation to residential property arising under the Landlord and Tenant Acts.