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I sincerely hope that the Law Society or the SRA don't actively impose the same "standard" as the BSB, and sanction those of us on this side of the profession for similar conduct. On many occasions in over 30 years in practice, I have helped out certain clients financially, some of them society's most vulnerable. On one occasion, I was told subsequently that my actions probably averted a suicide.

Is it potentially a breach ? Yes. Am I aware of that ? Yes. Does it impinge on my impartiality ? No. Do I regret the occasional handout to such clients ? Not for one nanosecond. Will I stop doing so ? Not a chance. Will I be anonymous for this post ? Absolutely, if only to avoid the knock on the door from the SRA if lobbied by the BSB !

The BSB should perhaps consider this hypocrisy carefully. Applying the same standard, is not Pro Bono work likely to amount to a failure to maintain independence and be likely to diminish the trust and confidence the public place in the profession ? After all, on one interpretation, when active for individuals it’s the same thing.

Bravo Mr Headlam for your human kindness and common decency.