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The reason why the contract is not running as efficiently as one would expect is the fact that many qualified interpreters refuse to work for the Big Word. I spent ten years working for HMCTS directly, mainly in my local courts, but I refuse to accept such a ridiculous and unjustified reduction in rates. I also refuse to work for what I can only describe as demeaning peanuts. I have found different sources of income but still work directly for solicitors or the CPS. I also work for any agency that pays reasonable rates. I am not greedy but I do not work for free - I am not a charity. I have noticed that many Big Word interpreters travel ridiculously long distances, which make it much more likely for delays to occur. Mr Gould's business model puzzles me. Surely it would be far more sensible to offer a reasonable call out fee (or a minimum fee) to encourage local qualified professionals to take local jobs to avoid interpreters travelling hundreds of miles on busy motorways with delays being likely or even inevitable? Mind boggles. I can see Mr Gould is still grinning. The defendants who are waiting for an interpreter in vain are probably not quite so cheerful.