ICCPR Recommendations 2024, paragraph 49

The State party should redouble its efforts to improve access to justice through the provision of adequate free legal aid to all persons without sufficient means, especially in cases where the interests of justice so require, in accordance with article 14 (3) (d) of the Covenant, including by increasing the allocation of human and financial resources to ensure the adequate and efficient functioning and sustainability of the Legal Aid Agency. It should also review the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 to identify any negative impact it may have, and ensure that financial eligibility thresholds for legal aid exclude only those individuals who can genuinely afford to pay for their own legal representation and that contributions are affordable.