LAW firms MacRoberts and Morton Fraser have refused to comment on speculation that they are in merger talks after news of a potential deal was reported in trade title The Lawyer.

MacRoberts managing partner John Macmillan said that the firm regularly talks to “individuals, teams and firms”, adding that “it would be inappropriate to make any comment on the existence or otherwise of any such conversations”.

Morton Fraser chief executive Chris Harte, meanwhile, said his firm regularly has “exploratory discussions with third parties around a wide range of potential opportunities”.

“We don't, however, comment on speculation regarding any such conversations,” he added.