The LSC has just published its consultation paper concerning amendments to the General Criminal Contract.  The amendments surround CDS Act changes and Early Cover provision.  They will also review the forms in relation to means testing, considering content, layout and process.  This will include changes to ensure that applications from young defendants are submitted and processed as quickly as possible. 

Their intention is for any revised forms to be in place from 22 January, and it is not necessary for changes to be made to the General Criminal Contract to implement this change.

Responses should be directed to:

Sarah Bullock
Legal Services Commission
Lee House
2nd Floor
90 Great Bridgewater Street
Manchester
M1 5JW

The consultation will close on 2 January 2007.  As this amendment is considered urgent in response to concerns raised by the profession this is a 21 day consultation. This is allowable under Part C Paragraph 11.7.