Enema of the people

Almost one year ago, you published a letter setting out my views on costs negotiating companies and their practices (see [2000] Gazette, 7 December, 20).

The letter itself provoked much support from many other firms who were experiencing difficulties with negotiators similar to the ones we had.My firm has been a muppet-free zone since last November, and what a joy it has been.

No endless arguments with unqualified school leavers.

No market trading, often lasting weeks, for which my firm is not paid.

No standard letters making ridiculous offers on costs.Despite conducting literally hundreds of detailed assessments since last November, I am not aware of a single district judge who has criticised my firm's stance.

In fact, the judiciary is fast becoming aware of the way in which these outfits are run and the manner in which they charge.Even liability insurers are beginning to question the true savings that are actually being achieved by their so-called costs experts.

I urge those claimant firms who are still 'playing the game' to think long and hard about the system they are helping to perpetuate.If firms wish to have their professional integrity called into question by those akin to second-hand car dealers that is, of course, a matter for them.However, there is another way of dealing with matters.

If insurers, via their preferred weapon of choice, make ludicrous offers then they can be made to pay a high price by the judicious application of a part 8 enema.M J Cockx, Amelans, Manchester