In respect of interlocutory applications, the position is normally that costs fall to be reserved and decided at the conclusion of the litigation, unless there is some special feature. The case of Sportcal Global Communication Limited and another v Laflin certainly had special features.
How hard is it to say “sorry”? Elton John was right, it really is the hardest word. Why is this? If we’ve done something wrong, why can’t we just say sorry and mean it without making things worse? Apparently, it’s just not that simple, and therefore, as is the case in some other jurisdictions, it is proposed that in England we should enact a law to make it easier.
I am prompted to look at the issue of apologies as a result of the Apologies Bill, which was a Ten Minute Rule Bill presented to Parliament by John Howell MP on 1 December 2020. The Bill has passed its first reading. The debate, as recorded in Hansard, was short and sweet. The Bill itself, or any paperwork in relation to it, has not been publicised at the time of writing. Presumably it will appear in due course since it is due for its second reading on 5 March 2021, now adjourned to 16 April 2021.
Challenges under the Solicitors Act 1974, by former clients in relation to their bills, have been the subject of a number of recent decisions with informed consent being a key issue.
