I write in reference to comments by Stephen Kon regarding the Office of Fair Trading's view of a possible boycott of competitive tendering for criminal work (see [2005] Gazette, 19 May, 1).


Apparently, trade associations should not interfere in the commercial affairs of their members.


Isn't this exactly what a trade association is for? Whatever next? Are trade unions to be investigated for seeking to better the pay and conditions of their members? Or is the Confederation of British Industry to be disbanded for its lobbying in relation to government policy on taxes and working conditions?



All of these actions have an impact on the competitiveness of businesses, but are rightly permitted on public policy grounds. It seems that criminal law practitioners and their clients are unworthy of similar considerations.


Good on the Criminal Law Solicitors Association. Not to be too Bolshy - but strike, strike. To paraphrase Marx: you have nothing to lose but your BMWs.


Adam Snow, Crewe, Cheshire