Following strong lobbying from the Trainee Solicitors Group, the minimum salary will rise in 2005. The TSG continues to support a regular increase in the minimum salary after the salary remained static from 1992 to 1999. Yet still 20% of law firms offer contracts below the minimum salary.

The TSG has actively sought comments from its membership and discussed the Law Society's training framework review at a meeting of local representatives (see [2005] Gazette, 7 April, pp4, 11). It was agreed that we supported the recommendations and that that the loss of the minimum salary and other protections like the indemnity would be conditional on increased protections in the work-based learning system replacing the contract. The TSG response to the consultation will be submitted in June.


If the current system worked, we would not have received 1,164 calls during our last helpline review period, which illustrates the need for tougher measures than the current protections in any new framework. We believe that the recommendations will lead to a more accessible and diverse profession, while increasing standards. Alleging that the TSG would engage in realpolitik without consulting its members, is therefore misinformed, considering the consultations already undertaken. Our members are our priority.


Peter Wright, chairman, national Trainee Solicitors Group, Basingstoke