Amanda Pinto

It has so far received 145 responses to a survey of 262 of the largest chambers.

Respondents’ main concerns were interruption to work, inability to generate income to pay future costs and cash flow issues.

The criminal bar is the worst affected section of the profession, with 67 per cent of chambers unable to survive for six months without financial aid.

Furthermore, pupilages are at risk, with 36 per cent of chambers changing their plans for this year and next.

Amanda Pinto QC, chair of the bar, said: “We continue to urge the Ministry of Justice and government to give immediate support to the bar, especially those in the early stages of their practice and those doing publicly funded work.

“Whilst the measures introduced last week by the Chancellor of the Exchequer to help the self-employed were welcome, the self-employed bar and chambers have needs that have not been addressed.

“Having canvassed the bar through our survey, we have identified consistent concerns that chambers are facing, which we have raised as a matter of urgency with the government. We continue to press for action on these issues.”