Counsel Magazine

ALEXANDER Learmonth, the Chairman of the Young Barristers’ Committee, called for the young Bar to work together in the face of ongoing threats to the future of the profession. Speaking at the annual Young Bar Conference, Learmonth emphasised the need for unity at a time when the pressure on the legal aid budget and the increased use of Solicitor Advocates are putting the future of the Bar in doubt.

Mr Learmonth addressed the key issues affecting the young Bar – those under ten years’ call – which include the proposed cuts to the legal aid budget, for both family and criminal work; the introduction of Best Value Tendering pilot schemes; and regulatory change which will see the introduction of new business structures. The full press release is available on the Bar Council website (www.barcouncil.org.uk).