Landmark plans for Hong Kong lawyers to join a key mainland professional body appear to have been shelved because of fears the move may compromise their independent image.
The Bar Association, which represents SAR barristers, has decided not to take up an offer of membership from the Beijing-based All China Lawyers Association (ACLA), whose members currently comprise solely mainland lawyers.
The Law Society, on behalf of solicitors, is keeping its options open but also has concerns about perceived loss of autonomy.
Opening up ACLA to Hong Kong lawyers was one of the measures announced by the mainland's Ministry of Justice in July 2000. It was seen as a measure which could help lawyers from the SAR gain access to the mainland market.
But Bar Association Chairman Alan Leong Kah-kit, SC, said: 'After mature reflection, we have decided we do not want it. We do not want it to be suggested or perceived in any way, however remotely, that we may be subordinate to this body.'
He also expressed concern that if Hong Kong barristers were allowed to join the ACLA, there may have to be a reciprocal agreement whereby mainland lawyers could have membership of the Bar Association.
'We may not necessarily want that. We don't want someone holding himself out as a member of the Hong Kong Bar Association and then to start talking about things which may embarrass us. That is something we may want to guard against.'