IPReg has welcomed the publication of the Independent Public Bodies Review of the Legal Services Board (LSB), recognising it as an important opportunity to strengthen a regulatory framework that is proportionate, evidence-led and focused on delivering better outcomes for consumers, the profession and the wider public.
The review's emphasis on risk-based, outcomes-focused regulation closely aligns with IPReg's own regulatory approach and reinforces the importance of regulation that is both effective and proportionate. As the independent regulator of patent and trade mark attorneys, IPReg supports a regulatory framework that protects consumers and businesses while fostering innovation, confidence and economic growth across the legal services sector.
Patent and trade mark attorneys play a vital role in the UK's innovation economy, helping businesses, inventors and creators protect, commercialise and enforce the intellectual property that drives investment, productivity and international competitiveness. Maintaining public confidence in the profession requires regulation that upholds the highest standards of competence, integrity and professionalism, while remaining responsive to an evolving landscape.
At IPReg, we believe the future of regulation is not about regulating more, but about regulating smarter. That means understanding emerging risks, anticipating change and acting proportionately where intervention will have the greatest impact. Through continued investment in regulatory intelligence, horizon scanning and evidence-led decision-making, IPReg is ensuring that its regulatory approach remains agile, transparent and capable of providing assurance to consumers, the profession and the wider public.
Bill Matthews, Chair of IPReg, said:
"This review reinforces a principle that sits at the heart of effective regulation: it should be proportionate, evidence-led and focused on delivering meaningful outcomes for consumers and the wider public interest."
Jay Parmar, CEO of IPReg added:
“ We welcome the opportunity to work constructively with the Legal Services Board, the Ministry of Justice and fellow legal regulators as the review's recommendations are taken forward. By working collaboratively, we can strengthen consumer protection, support innovation and provide greater assurance that the standards, competence and integrity of legal professionals continue to meet the high expectations of the public."