Martin Sewell is right (see [2007] Gazette, 16 August, 14). The aims of the legal aid reforms to improve quality while reducing costs should apply to the Legal Services Commission as well as service providers.


Lord Carter also agreed when he highlighted that the commission was making changes that could save our administration budget up to £30 million by 2010/11.



One key way we are working towards this is by replacing manual processing of paper work with electronic working through initiatives such as online billing. Another is revising our quality controls - the future will see greater use of peer review to set high entry standards for legal aid contracts and providers operating with greater independence.



Working electronically and devolving more decisions should allow us to reduce staff numbers and office space, while giving law firms and advice agencies a faster and more efficient service. They will be able to pass on these benefits to clients.



During recent discussions, several providers have given me confidence they are working towards similar aims. I have been impressed with their willingness to adopt new business models and ways of delivering services in light of the reforms. They are placing particular importance on ensuring their solicitors' time and skills are focused where legal expertise is needed. Such fresh thinking and working in partnership is essential to maximise returns for providers and access to quality services for more legal aid clients.



Carolyn Regan, chief executive, Legal Services Commission