I suppose that I should have declared an interest as a member of the Law Society, although I confess—thanks heavens—that I am not actively practising my profession and have not done for some time.
I thank the Minister for his explanation. I am still slightly at a loss to understand how it can be claimed that, as far as the solicitors profession is concerned, the clause would make any difference, given the Law Society’s stated response, as I have already indicated, that,
“The Solicitors Regulation Authority would not take further action if notified that a wasted costs order has been made against a solicitor”.
I do not know whether that has been discussed directly with the authority or whether there has been subsequent discussions and a change of position. It just stands slightly at odds with the Minister’s reply. Perhaps he would care to look into that and write to me, placing a copy of the response in the Library, because it looks as though different approaches may be being adopted by two of the three parts of the profession.
Having said that, I certainly concur with the noble Lord that this is essentially a probing amendment and I beg leave to withdraw it.