SRA delays decision on controversial plan for Solicitors Qualifying Exam

The Solicitors Regulation Authority has put back a final decision on whether to introduce controversial plans for a Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE).

The regulator insisted that there was “a strong case” for introducing the SQE, but said extending the timetable would allow it to get the detail right before making a decision.

The SRA’s announcement followed a consultation that attracted some 240 responses.

The regulator acknowledged that the case for a new centralised approach had “proved to be controversial”.

Considerable opposition to the proposal had come particularly from universities and academic representative groups, the SRA said. “Many respondents felt they needed more detail about how the whole qualification process would work before they could reach a firm view, while others questioned whether the current system was broken.”

The watchdog had originally planned to make a decision this month on the principle of introducing the SQE, and then consult on the detail of its plans.

However, it has now put back a final decision on the assessment until spring 2017. This means the suggested start date for SQE will be no earlier than the academic year 2019/20.

Further work will be undertaken, including development of the SRA’s thinking about how the SQE could work alongside a period of recognised work-based learning.

The SRA said a consultation in the Autumn would also provide a draft of the Assessment Framework, which will explain in detail the potential nature of the SQE, its level of difficulty, breadth and depth.

Paul Philip, SRA Chief Executive, said: "I think the case for a form of centralised assessment is strong. It addresses the problem that, currently, qualifications are not comparable - multiple courses and exams mean that standards can vary significantly and there is a lack of transparency. Any new assessment needs to be fair and consistent and ensure that new solicitors can meet the high standards that the public and employers expect.

"I welcome the support from organisations such as the Law Society, the Law Centres Network and the Black Solicitors Network. Yet we have had some useful challenges. We recognise the call for more detail, and the need to make sure that the SQE is targeted and proportionate while maintaining the essential high standards. I am absolutely clear that a period of work-based learning has to be a fundamental component of the process.”

Philip added: "We will continue to listen and gather more evidence. Our autumn consultation should broaden and deepen the debate, as everyone will have the chance to look at the detail and how our proposals all fit together. It is important that we do not rush any change. Our priority is getting this right."