I write to support the retention of wigs and gowns for advocates in court by solicitors or barristers for several reasons.

In general, the wearing of appropriate attire for different positions is being increasingly abandoned and we are thus losing one more veneer in the disciplines of a civilised society.

The wearing of appropriate dress in court lends a certain dignity and seriousness to the occasion and tends to command respect and courtesy.

And it provides an appropriate distinction for those engaged in administering law from litigants or accused attending court.

There is little doubt that the majority of the public pay due regard to those in court wearing the appropriate attire.

Lastly and most importantly, with an increasing number of lady barristers, in an age where ladies are seeking equality, it is so much better if, like the men folk, they too are dressed in wig and gown thus eliminating a distinction which they are so often seeking to avoid.

Peter Carter-Ruck, Great Hallingbury, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire