I MUST respond to the concerns of Lorna Jack, chief executive of the Law Society of Scotland, regarding the recent “large” levy increase by the Scottish Legal Complaints Commission, or SLCC (“Lawyers warn complaints body’s fee rise will hit clients”, The Herald, March 27).

The £36 increase for about half of those who pay the levy equates to eight pence per week in a 46-week year. In a 38-hour week, that equates to around two pence per person per hour.

Given this paltry sum, I am amazed that Ms Jack seems to be utilising it to approve across-the-board fees to the consumer.

The SLCC was formed after the Legal Profession and Legal Aid (Scotland) Act 2007 to act as the gateway for all complaints against solicitors and advocates in Scotland. Given the 19 Court of Session actions that have been raised by the Law Society against the SLCC, it seems abundantly clear that the legal profession is trying to emasculate this vital role that is enjoyed by the SLCC.

It is time for a major review of the 2007 act.

The intention must be to strengthen the legal position of the SLCC and remove the Law Society of Scotland from any involvement whatsoever in the complaints process.

The Law Society of England and Wales has no role whatsoever in its complaints process.

WR McCrindle,

Chairman,

McCrindle Group Limited,

126 Meadowfoot Road,

West Kilbride,

Ayrshire.