The Attorney General has launched an eight week public consultation on criminal legal aid.

He is seeking the public’s views on current criminal legal aid provision, and the feasibility of alternative approaches including fixed fees and a public defender scheme.

Legal aid plays a vital role, contributing to the smooth running of the Manx justice systems, and providing support for some of the most vulnerable members of society.

The idea of a so-called public defender unit was one of the recommendations to come out of the government’s SAVE programme.

But critics have branded it as ’state control of the judicial system’.

The Law Society is opposing the move, claiming it will lead to law firms being forced to close.

Attorney General John Quinn said: ’I would like to encourage as many people as possible to take part in this important consultation, as it is an essential step towards helping understand people’s views.’

Copies of the consultation are available by calling 685452 or emailing [email protected]