There is strong speculation that Henry Hodge will head up the Legal Aid Board under Labour, and the Board is likely to become more accountable to Parliament. The left wing of the party will urge the LCD to look at old chestnuts, such as a public defender scheme. Their influence will depend on the composition of the new intake. The Home Office will be at least as high profile as it has been under Michael Howard. If Jack Straw becomes Home Security, expect decentralisation of the Crown Prosecution Service and cuts in the criminal legal aid budget.
Labour is short of lawyers with parliamentary experience.
Lord Williams of Mostyn is tipped for office. Overall, expect legal affairs to be at the heart of government under Labour. The party is led by a barrister. His close ally, Lord Irvine, will be far more politically motivated than his predecessor. If the Conservatives retain power, expect continuity.