The City of London Law Society (CLLS) has established a committee devoted to arbitration in its latest move to boost London’s competitive edge in the global disputes resolution marketplace. 

The committee, chaired by the deputy chief executive of Hogan Lovells, Michael Davison, will provide expert advice to the government, MP and stakeholders such as the Law Society on international disputes while promoting London as an important centre for arbitration.

It has submitted an interim response to the Law Commission’s review of the Arbitration Act 1996, which City lawyers have welcomed.

Before becoming deputy chief executive in 2020, Davison led Hogan Lovells’ global disputes practice for six years. He has almost 30 years of experience in arbitration. Ashurst partner Matthew Saunders, head of international arbitration, is vice-chair. Other members include prominent figures such as Marie Berard of Clifford Chance, James Freeman at Allen & Overy, Hannah Ambrose of Herbert Smith Freehills and Stuart Dutson of Simmons & Simmons.

Davison said: 'By providing a clear and consistent voice across organisations, the new committee will help us maintain our competitive edge as other disputes hubs try to gain momentum. Our objective is to be a voice that will help modernise the arbitration system while supporting the next generation of leaders in our field.'

Edward Sparrow, chairman of the CLLS, said the committee would be 'an important voice in promoting London as a leading centre of arbitration in the post-Brexit world'.

Saunders added: 'London has historically lacked a body able to speak for arbitration practitioners practising in the City. It is hoped that the new committee will address that shortcoming. With increasing global competition for arbitration work, it has never been more important that the voice of London-based arbitration practitioners is heard.'

CMS partner Richard Bamforth, co-chair of London International Disputes Week, agreed: 'The establishment of the committee, and the appointment of Michael, as a prominent member of the London international arbitration community, is a welcome step.'