The business of law

Indian Express

British law firms are keen to set up their operations in India, the country's Minister of State for Legal Affairs Baronness Ashton said but ruled out UK lawyers practicing in courts in New Delhi, allaying concerns in this regard.

Ashton, who is on an 8-day visit, advocated the need for partnership between the legal firms of the two countries, saying it would be beneficial in view of the globalisation of economy.

"We want our legal firms to come and operate here within safeguards. We would expect benefit for India (in this)," she said in an interaction with a select group of journalists.

She said nine Indian firms are already operating from London, providing an opportunity for the legal firms of the two countries to work together.




As part of the partnership, contracts can be drafted by Indian companies here saving money, the British Minister said business could be to the tune of thousands of millions of pounds.

The issue was discussed when she met Law Minister H R Bhardwaj and officials of Bar Council of India (BCI) and Supreme Court Bar Association.

Quoting Bhardwaj, Ashton said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the Law Minister recognise the real opportunity for lawyers of the two countries working together in the backdrop of economic development of India.

The BCI was also receptive to the idea and its delegation has been invited to visit London for further discussions, possibly this month or in June, she said.