LSB shelves diversity policy proposal over concerns for regulators and small firms
The Legal Services Board (LSB) has retracted its proposal of a statutory statement of policy to tackle diversity and equality barriers within the legal profession. Following a consultation between November 2025 and March 2026, where the oversight regulator asked for responses on a proposal which would require regulators to take steps in addressing a lack […]
New analysis shows Your First Home scheme could double available new homes
Property portal Rightmove have suggested the proposed Your First Home scheme could more than double the number of available new-build homes affordable to an average solo first-time buyer in England, compared with buying with a standard 5% deposit and 95% mortgage. On reviewing its own data, and with the limited information supplied to date on […]
The Law Society marks Black History Month by celebrating achievements of black solicitors
With Black History Moth well underway, the Law Society of England and Wales says it recognises the contributions of Black solicitors whose work supports and sustains Black communities across the UK. The initiative provides an opportunity to celebrate the service, leadership and impact of Black solicitors, the Law Society said, with this year’s theme – […]
SRA granted leapfrog appeal to Supreme Court in Carter-Ruck privilege case
An appeal made by the Solicitor’s Regulation Authority (SRA) against the Carter-Ruck ruling has been granted by the High Court and advanced to the Supreme Court. The landmark ruling made in September found the SRA does not have the power to requisition documents subject to legal professional privilege (LPP) under S.44B of the Solicitors Act […]
SDLT Reform: the tax makes headlines, but the process moves the market
Every few months, the property industry is invited to imagine a world without Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). Economists favour the idea, opposition parties favour the headline, and buyers naturally favour the prospect of tax savings. On a £400,000 main-residence purchase in England or Northern Ireland, abolishing SDLT would currently save a standard buyer £10,000, […]