Lobbying for liberalisation

As information squirts around the world in a matter of nano-seconds, it is tempting to assume that the age of the truly global lawyer is upon us.

Practitioners who travel the world providing incisive advice to corporate clients in a multiplicity of jurisdictions - and all unfettered by outmoded notions of local protectionism and self-interest.

But the reality is that while the barriers to information delivery are crumbling daily, protectionist instincts are more entrenched.

This week we report on two contrasting cases.

First, there is Japan, the only G7 country which still maintains tight constraints on foreign practitioners - albeit with some liberalisation over recent years - and is now looking to tighten those manacles further.

It is interesting to note that the City law firms operating in the country have turned in part to the Law Society for assistance in lobbying the Japanese authorities over the thorny issue of practice rights.

As Society president David McIntosh jets to Tokyo, he will be cheered by the thought of City players valuing Chancery Lane's input.

It is a further indication that the Law Society carries considerable weight abroad and has been an effective voice in many countries.While battle is engaged in Japan, there is more welcome news from Poland.

With one eye on membership to the European Union, the Poles are gradually liberalising their policy on foreign lawyers.

It is ironic that what was until recently one of the Eastern Bloc countries is now keen to liberalise, while a supposed bastion of capitalism remains mired in protectionist ideology.