LOCAL SUPPORT

I was most encouraged to see that the Law Society President recognises the importance and significance of the large numbers of employed solicitors and their representative bodies, the Local Government Group, and the Commerce and Industry Group (see [2001] Gazette, 18 October, 18).I also welcome his overture for the groups to support and work in partnership with a newly reformed Law Society.

To this end, I pledge on behalf of my group the continuation of the loyalty and commitment upon which Chancery Lane has been able to rely for many years.That this has not always been reciprocated is a matter of not inconsiderable regret, but we must now look forward to a future of constructive dialogue and mutual respect.

It is also pleasing that the Law Society Council itself recognises the value of the support to members given by the groups, but it is just as important to acknowledge that the Society benefits enormously from the dedication and commitment to corporate governance and responsibility that is the cornerstone of the groups' work.I look forward with confidence to this being reflected in the debate that is to follow on the principles of the means of support provided by the Society to the groups themselves.Nigel Roberts, chairman, Local Government Group