I was most concerned to read your article about the changes to Legal Aid entitled "Lawyers in revolt" (The Press, April 18).

The article referred to key reforms in criminal Legal Aid.

The proposals for Legal Aid reform addressed concerns around the timing, sequencing and detail of the reforms, including a further consultation on the family fees.

The Law Society and others welcomed this.

The Government's proposals for Legal Aid reform are absolutely necessary to safeguard clients by ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Legal Aid system.

Our Legal Aid system is one of the best-funded in the world, and the work of the Legal Aid providers with whom we work is fundamental to social and legal justice.

But we have to remember that our budget comes from the taxpayer and is not unlimited.

We have to make sure we get the best possible service for clients and the best price for the taxpayer.

We at the Legal Services Commission will continue to work with efficient, dedicated and high-quality legal advice providers to safeguard the needs of the most vulnerable members of the community.

Peter Nelson, Regional director, Legal Services Commission.