The Solicitors’ Association of Higher Courts Advocates has repeated calls to postpone the Quality Assurance Scheme for Advocates, despite the Court of Appeal ruling the scheme to be lawful.

Master of the rolls Lord Dyson said the controversial scheme does not undermine the independence of the advocate or judiciary.

The decision was welcomed by consumer groups and Legal Services Board chairman Sir Michael Pitt, who hailed it as proof the scheme is valid.

SAHCA said the judgment was ‘disappointing’ but noted Dyson had not commented on the merits of the scheme. It is understood an appeal to the Supreme Court (pictured) is being considered.