Here’s a challenge for the chaps in spotty bow ties: how can we ‘sex up’ board meetings of the Solicitors Regulation Authority? The question actually came up at a board meeting last month – in the context, we hasten to add, of encouraging more members of the public to come along.

An early question from board member Dr Susan Bews put a finger on the problem: ‘From a public perspective I wonder who would want to come?’ she mused. It was pointed out that, in this context, ‘the public’ includes members of the profession as well as harmless eccentrics like the Gazette’s reporter, who often has the public seats to himself.

Another member, Eddie Solomons, had one solution. ‘The meeting needs to generate interest, sexy content and bit of controversy.’ Opening up parts of the private session might help, he suggested.

Other ideas included inviting guests to come and speak at a meeting. Chief executive Antony Townsend suggested a blend of combining meetings with SRA roadshows, inviting outside speakers and generating advance publicity. Oh, and making meetings ‘sexy’.

Obiter is no prude, but hopes they don’t overdo it.