It is clear that Anthony Hunt does not understand union legal schemes and the way they are operated (see [2005] Gazette, 15 September, 18).

It is absolutely false to say that union legal schemes erode choice and that unions 'poach' members away from lawyers not contracted by the union. Union members are free to take their case to whatever solicitor they wish. However, if a member wants to use the union service, and if we are to fund their case as a result, that member needs to understand that we can only ensure and exact high standards if we use lawyers that we know can comply.


Solicitors who are not used by trade unions know nothing of the quality monitoring carried out by the unions of their lawyers.


Unions and their lawyers also see cases in a wider context than simply securing compensation. We work together to improve workplace health and safety and reduce accidents, and our lawyers approach personal injury claims on that basis - a comfort that non-union lawyers cannot offer their clients.


Bronwyn McKenna, solicitor, UNISON, London