In its latest newsletter the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe (CCBE) defends clear, workable and proportionate rules to fight money laundering and tax evasion:

European Parliament Committee of inquiry into money laundering, tax avoidance and tax evasion (PANA)
The CCBE was invited to participate in a hearing on 24 January organised by the European Parliament Committee of Inquiry into Money Laundering, Tax Avoidance and Tax Evasion (PANA).
During the hearing, the CCBE highlighted its support for the fight against money laundering, and explained how the profession has been actively engaged in countering existing and potential risks. The CCBE explained how lawyers are covered by the obligations included in the EU anti-money laundering Directive and the International standards set by the FATF. The CCBE emphasised that its member Bars and Law Societies do not, and never will, condone the actions of any lawyer who knowingly participates in any criminal activity of a client, whether relating to money laundering, tax evasion or any other criminal activity. It is in our interest to protect the reputation of the legal profession, and any lawyer that is involved in illegal activity hurts the reputation of the entire profession. The CCBE concluded by stating that it is in favour of clear, workable and proportionate rules to fight money laundering and tax evasion.