I have recently spotted a flaw in the government's anti-money laundering legislation.

Last year, I was asked by a client to sign his passport application, which I did as I had known him for some time. I did not ask to see any proof of identity prior to signing the application, and my word as a solicitor was good enough for the Passport Agency, which duly issued a passport.


The same client has now instructed me to act for him in a new matter, and I must ask him to produce the passport, which I assisted him to obtain as proof of his identity.


It seems strange that post 11 September 2001 I am able to give someone the means to gain access to an aircraft without any checks, but my word is not good enough to allow me to act for that person in a small conveyancing transaction.


Then again, perhaps this is indicative of the government's true priorities.




Matthew Elias, Nigel Davis Solicitors, Belper, Derbyshire