In response to John Ford Solicitors’ letter, we have not reduced volume as part of our recent tender for low volume category legal services.

New matter start volumes are consistent with those delivered from September 2008 to August 2009. Also, matter starts are now more closely aligned to client location, to improve access to justice.

In two categories (Actions Against the Police and Education), the tender process was competitive and matter starts were awarded to those who scored highest against our criteria. In all other low volume categories, the process was non-competitive with matter starts awarded to all organisations that met our essential criteria.

Because the tender was over-subscribed, not all organisations received the amount of work they wanted. Until the tender process is complete, we cannot provide details about individual organisations; but we will publish a full list of successful bidders, and their allocation, before the contract start date.

In conclusion, although I accept that some organisations may be disappointed with their individual allocations, I am confident that the tender process will prove positive for clients.

Hugh Barrett , executive director, Legal Services Commission