Save the Land Registry campaign picking up momentum

The campaign to save HM Land Registry from the government’s proposed reforms is well underway. But one of the biggest obstacles to maintaining a meaningful campaign is lawyer apathy, possibly enhanced by the relatively short consultation period and the lack of publicity regarding the impact of the proposals. We hosted a mid-campaign conference call with solicitors and other interested parties last week to discuss how to take the campaign forward.

The Save the Land Registry website and Facebook page have generated a lot of web traffic and likes, but the key is converting the interest into a united voice. The solicitors and Land Registry employees that participated in the conference call were united in opposing the government’s proposals; now this unity must be spun into action. The Public and Commercial Services Union Land Registry group, representing the majority of HM Land Registry employees, has now submitted its formal response to the consultation. 

In its response, it emphasises the lack of explanation and reasoning behind the government’s proposals, much of which is couched in oblique language. Ultimately, the 98% satisfaction rate which the Land Registry enjoys is surely the best argument against the proposals, as well as the fact it costs the public purse nothing.

Meanwhile, solicitors in different parts of the UK are actively looking to generate publicity for the campaign amongst local solicitors and estate agents. They are also busy writing to their MPs to make sure they have a voice in the House of Commons.

The reforms, if implemented, may change the status of the Land Registry from a self- financing Trading Fund, with the ability to pass on cost savings to its end users, to a commercial service delivery company, potentially part owned by Government or entirely private. The proposals also suggest passing responsibility for making changes to the Land Register to conveyancers themselves. The impact on solicitors and their clients has not been made clear in the proposals.

One body whose voice has been strangely mute is the Law Society. Whether for reasons of political neutrality or lack of fight, they have not taken a clear position on the proposals. But in its stead, HighStreetLawyer is taking the lead in making sure these proposals are not quietly forced on us and is asking for further time for the proposals to be considered and for the proposals to consider keeping the current system. You can see what others are saying and add your comments on HighStreetlawyer Workshare. It's free to join. Just click here and follow the simple steps.