A mission to South Africa by UK legal services stakeholders will nurture links between the UK and Commonwealth countries.
President of the Law Society of England and Wales Lucy Scott-Moncrieff is in Cape Town this week, leading a delegation to South Africa to coincide with the Commonwealth Lawyers Conference, providing an opportunity to strengthen ties with bar leaders from across the Commonwealth.
The delegation, which includes Law Society chief executive Desmond Hudson, former Lord Mayor of London and Allen & Overy partner Sir David Wootton, and Law Society Head of International Julia Bateman, will also explore business opportunities for UK firms already active abroad as well as those looking to break into emerging markets.
They will meet UK lawyers practising in the country at a Cape Town networking reception, promote the solicitors' qualification as a qualification of choice for global lawyers at an event organised jointly with the Law Society of South Africa and the Cape Law Society, and host a breakfast seminar for young lawyers alongside the Commonwealth Lawyers Association.
The delegation will also visit projects run by local human rights organisation Legal Resources Centre.
Lucy Scott-Moncrieff, president of the Law Society of England and Wales, said:
'The UK's relationships with other Commonwealth countries is built on a shared heritage but constantly evolving. This mission will help to further develop these relationships.
'Our world-class lawyers have a central role in advising businesses in emerging markets, including South Africa. This visit will strengthen our ties in South Africa and provide firm foundations for business relationships between UK firms and their South African counterparts.
'We are working hard to support UK law firms already working abroad or exploring international opportunities in developing their business.'
Ends
Notes to editors
1. The delegation will be in South Africa until Friday 19 April 2013, visiting Cape Town.
2. With over £9 billion in bilateral trade, the UK is a significant trading partner for South Africa.
About the Law Society of England and Wales
The Law Society is the independent professional body, established for solicitors in 1825, that works globally to support and represent its members, promoting the highest professional standards and the rule of law.
Press contact
Emma Alatalo
Law Society Press Office
+44 (0)20 7316 5592
emma.alatalo@lawsociety.org.uk