Although you have a right to silence, courts can take your silence into account when deciding whether you are guilty or innocent.

Legal Advice
You have the right to free legal advice from the duty solicitor. This does not depend on your financial circumstances.
Your request will be passed to the Defence Solicitor Call Centre. If the offence is less serious, the Call Centre will refer you to Criminal Defence Service Direct. This covers offences like drink driving, disorderly behaviour and breaches of bail. Criminal Defence Service Direct employs solicitors who will give you legal advice on the telephone. You still have the right to be advised by a solicitor in person if:
You're accused of a more serious offence, or
The police intend to interview you under caution, or
If you're considered to be vulnerable.

You can choose your own solicitor and won't have to pay for advice if they have a contract with the Criminal Defence Service (CDS).) The Call Centre will contact your solicitor for you.
Once you've asked for legal advice, the police must not normally question you. You don't have to answer any questions until you have spoken to a solicitor.