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15:37 Fair comment that we are nowhere near as bad as Nazi Germany, but the relevant point is not that we are in that position now, but that the laws of this country have gradually been changing along a line that ultimately could lead there in the long run if we are not vigilant in challenging the trend. It is an important responsibility of the state to protect its citizens against harm (such as result from terrorist acts) but, in a democratic society with a concern for upholding basic human rights, the responsibility does not justify operating a system that puts those who seek refuge from intolerant regimes that would torture and kill them if they return, onto a plane back to those regimes without adequate investigation. Return those who are only economic migrants by all means, but do not do this until the facts have been established. Asylum seekers are entitled to have their cases properly heard as a matter of this country's obligations under international treaties. If there are those who seek to defend such people against harsh and unfair treatment by our own Government, using peaceful and proportionate acts of protest, then do these actions actually bring the profession into disrepute (even if they breach the law)? That is the issue that the professional discipline system needs to answer, not merely the fact that a crime has been committed.

I for one would prefer it if members of our profession take a proportionate and reasonable stand against oppressive behaviour by those in power, rather than stand idly by wringing their hands. And I am afraid that, when people who need our society's protection are already on a plane to torture and/or death, writing a stiff letter to the Home Secretary or one's MP, though the legal option, is not going to help.

I would rather jump into a canal to save a person from drowning, despite the notice on the towpath telling me that swimming in the canal is strictly forbidden with contraventions liable to prosecution, than walk away bewailing my inability to help the person because the law is against me. And would it not enhance the profession's reputation in the eyes of non-swimmer bystanders if I, as a solicitor, did jump in?