The cost of any COE is always of concern and especially so when there are competing demands for ever scarce resources. The debate surrounds getting value for money and the provision of jobs for the favoured few. Lawyers play a critical role in such enquiries. Where counsel in retained by private interests it is of no public concern. However, when the government selects counsel and pays for such services out of the public purse, then it is a matter for public scrutiny. Of course there is also the inferences to be drawn when counsel retained by the government displays political allegiance favourable to the governing political party, and in some instances play supportive roles during elections -- even contesting seats. The Snoring Commission was no different and the scrutiny was heightened by the withdrawal of the JLP and its associates from the proceedings. Consequently the findings are conditioned by the situation of " uncontradicted evidence" being prese...