Press releases and news
Find all the latest major announcements, breaking news, press releases and commentary from the Bar Council on issues affecting the barristers' profession, justice and the rule of law.
The purpose of the Bar Council's press releases are to represent and promote the Bar nationally as well as globally, bring its voice to the public domain and defend the rule of law.
For more information about any press release or news item, call contact Press Office on 020 7092 8175 or email [email protected]
Bar Council calls for private prosecutions code of practice and reform of “conveyor belt” Single Justice Procedure
The Bar Council has called on the government to introduce a mandatory code of practice which should be monitored by an inspectorate for all private prosecutors.
Bar Council disappointed India trade deal does not extend to legal services
We'll continue to work through our MOU with the Bar Council of India
Restricting parental responsibility in cases of abuse welcome
The measure is included in the new Victims and Courts Bill, introduced today
Year of the review: Bar Conference examines Bar’s culture, public inquiries and future of justice
Bar Conference will this year examine the Bar's culture, whether public inquiries deliver in the public interest, the future of justice and much more.
Bar Council urges BSB to focus on key regulatory activities
Bar Council concerned about BSB's expanding focus and year-on-year budget increases
Bar Sustainability Network takes next steps with Achill Legal
The Network will engage more barristers and chambers in the net zero transition and share best practice across the profession.
Bar Council supports American Bar Association
The European legal profession has offered collective support to the American Bar Association and colleagues
Bar Council reacts to BSB regulatory assessment
The BSB needs to focus more on delivering its critical regulatory activities at greater pace
Race Panel co-chairs win diversity champion award
Laurie-Anne Power KC and Simon Regis CBE were recognised at the Legal 500 ESG Awards 2025
First proposed increase to civil legal aid in 30 years welcome, but much more needed to rebuild the sector
The Bar Council's consultation highlights that the proposed increase falls far behind inflation and more will be needed.
Bar Council Chair urges barristers to report inappropriate behaviours
The call follows a cluster of tribunal findings of inappropriate behaviour of a sexual nature
Tackling violence against women: Kim Johnson MP joins Bar Council to hear about the role of the courts
The Bar Council highlighted that the family courts are an integral part of the solution to tackle violence against women and girls at a roundtable discussion.
Private prosecution safeguards needed to ensure power to prosecute not abused, Bar Council says
Welcoming the government consultation into private prosecutions and the Single Justice Procedure, the Bar Council said both have led to miscarriages of justice and shaken public confidence in the criminal justice system.
Sitting days increase positive step in long list of measures needed to restore criminal justice
The Bar Council welcomes the increase but says that if we are to reduce the delays and impact on victims, witnesses, and defendants, there should be no limit on sitting days.
New Arbitration Act will strengthen UK’s leading position
Arbitration is worth billions to the British economy, says Bar Chair