CONTRACT LESSONS I write regarding recent articles by Nigel Savage (see [2001] Gazette, 8 November, 14) and Andrew Holroyd (see [2001] Gazette, 22 November, 14).

The training contract by its own definition is fundamental to the educational standard of trainees in the country.

Setting universal standards during the legal practice course (LPC) and during the training contract is not enough - there also needs to be extensive monitoring.

We have read through the Gazette and other publications, that firms have expressed concern, for example, over the poor research skills of their trainees.

This failure reflects the shortfall in the quality of some LPC providers in making sure the student/prospective trainee is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the demands of the modern law firm.The training contract stands as a framework of goals in which firms and trainees have to work towards to obtain the skills and knowledge needed to become a good solicitor.

Mr Savage has put forward the view that on completion of the LPC, trainees should be deemed solicitors.

But this merely looks at the training contract from a commercial point of view.

It is a way of selling the LPC to the international market.The training contract protects firms, trainees and importantly clients, in obtaining the best service from specialists.Margaret Bailey, Law Society Council member for trainee solicitors and LPC students