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The Bar council has a point in that the quality of barristers should not be diluted. I agree and applaud this for BOTH professions.

However, to suggest that there can be no equivalency practising the law as a solicitor and practising the law as a barrister is misleading and protectionist.

The training for both professions highlight intellect, knowledge and practice of the law and ethical behaviour. The Bar concentrates on presentation and advocacy with a 1 year training course and 1 year apprenticeship (pupillage: 6 months observing and 6 months being observed). Solicitors concentrate on administration of the law over a 1 year training course and 2 years apprenticeship (Training contract in a number of areas, potentially including advocacy).

Yes a newly qualified solicitor will not be as good an advocate as a newly qualified barrister generally. However an experienced solicitor will bring better case awareness, knowledge and people skills..

Cross qualifying is a good thing if the playing fields are level.