(1)Subsection (2) applies to any rule—
(a)which regulates in respect of any matter the professional practice, conduct or discipline of advocates, and
(b)under which an advocate is prohibited from forming a legal relationship with another advocate, or any other person, for the purpose of their jointly offering professional services to the public.
(2)The rule is of no effect unless it has been approved by the Scottish Ministers after they have consulted the OFT.
(3)Subsection (2) is without prejudice to section 121(2) and (3).
(4)In section 31 (rules of conduct etc.) of the 1990 Act, subsection (1) is repealed.