The article on the European view of Clementi by Jonathan Goldsmith is to be applauded (see [2006] Gazette, 29 June, 15). We are told constantly that the profession must be 'consumer driven' and 'consumer focused'. Yet there are situations where the duty of the solicitor is to prevent the client/customer from getting what he/she wants. Examples might include a man trying to bring vexatious litigation against another person, or a mother unreasonably trying to prevent access to her children by her former husband.

Sometimes the responsible solicitor must refuse to provide the service demanded. The provision of legal services is not the same as selling a tin of paint. I would question whether this reality has dawned on those currently zealous to bring sweeping changes to the regulation of the profession.

Boris Kremer, Kremers, Gosport, Hampshire