Baker & McKenzie has promoted only one lawyer to its London partnership, compared with six in last year's promotion round.

Restructuring and insolvency lawyer Louise Webb will take the international firm's London partnership to 85. She also sits on the firm's restructuring and insolvency steering committee.

In addition to Webb's promotions, Mark Delaney has been promoted to the firm's partner-equivalent position of director and head of UK VAT.

The firm has been bolstering its London ranks in recent months with several lateral hires. Banking and finance partner Calvin Walker joined from Allen & Overy while litigation partner Joanna Ludlam joined from Matthew Arnold & Baldwin.

Bakers' financial year came to an end on 31 May with preliminary results expected within the next month. The firm has had four years of sustained growth, with the London office bringing in £122m in turnover during 2007-08 compared with £111m the previous year.

Commenting on the promotions Gary Senior, Bakers' London managing partner, said: "Louise and Mark have demonstrated expertise in their respective practices, as well as exceptional commitment to our clients. We are pleased to announce their appointment."

Bakers' decision to scale back partner promotions this year comes after similar moves by many of the UK's top law firms, with the prolonged economic turmoil reducing the business case for new partners.