NEW DELHI: Indians who want to qualify as solicitors in the United Kingdom (U.K.) will now be able to take the `Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test' in Delhi and Mumbai. Until now, Indians who wanted take the test required to handle cases reserved for solicitors had to travel to the U.K. Passing the test will qualify Indian lawyers to deal with conveyancing, applications for probate and litigation in England. Without this qualification, Indian lawyers could practise only Indian law in England.

At present, Indians comprise a negligible number of the 5,000 who get solicitor certificates issued in the U.K. each year. British High Commissioner Sir Michael Arthur, who launched the QLTT here on Wednesday, said ``this is a positive development that demonstrates the growing practical cooperation between India and the U.K. The launching of the test in India shows the strong regard the U.K. has for Indian lawyers. They are very welcome in the U.K.''

Once an Indian lawyer has passed the QLTT, he will be able to apply for admission to the Roll of Solicitors of the Supreme Court of England. Indians who want to become solicitors need to be registered by the Bar Council of India and need a minimum of two years experience as practising lawyers.

The College of Law of England and Wales and the Central Law Training, both accredited training providers in the U.K., are bringing the test to India. The first QLTT test will be conducted in Delhi and Mumbai in March 2006. It is divided into four heads, but only one of these — the section on Professional Conduct and Accounts — is compulsory for Indian lawyers whose medium of instruction is English.

The test is being conducted twice a year for a fee of £275.

Nick Oiley, Director International, College of Law, said ``dual qualification is becoming important. It will enhance the credibility of Indian lawyers and attract English companies looking for lawyers in India.

For lawyers aspiring to international practice, the QLTT is a must.''

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