The ability of overseas lawyers to instruct barristers directly, and the nature of the advocacy services which barristers provide, means that the Bar provides a cost-effective service which gives clients targeted expertise. The use of specialist practitioners contributes to efficient dispute resolution, and this has proved to be consistently attractive to international clients.

Commenting on the report, Desmond Browne QC, the Chairman of the Bar, said:

“Legal services are very important to the UK economy and IFSL’s report recognises the Bar’s contribution to our national prosperity.
The competitiveness of the City of London in international markets is underpinned by our legal system, which has a deservedly high reputation around the world for integrity and efficiency. It is in the national interest – and indeed European interest - that we maintain and promote English commercial law as the global business law of choice. As specialist advocates and advisors, barristers have a vital role to play in helping to maintain and strengthen the City as an international centre of legal expertise and in contributing to the UK’s overseas exports at this difficult time for our economy.”