Press Releases pre-May 2010

Carolyn Regan, Chief Executive of the Legal Services Commission, said: "The decision not to go ahead with the Best Value Tendering pilots announced in July 2009 presents the opportunity to develop a more ambitious programme of competitive tendering for England and Wales.  This will enable the introduction of simpler processes, while retaining a focus on improving the quality of legal services for the public.

"The considerable work already undertaken in preparation for the pilots puts us in a strong position to develop the new proposals in conjunction with colleagues in the Ministry of Justice and the legal professions.

"Our overriding priority remains the delivery of high-quality legal aid for those who need it most at the best possible value for public money.  Those who rely on legal aid need to see the benefits of greater innovation and efficiency in the services they receive."