§ Ms HodgeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what information was provided by the chairman of the Criminal Cases Review Committee to the selection committee responsible for his appointment in respect of his membership of the freemasons; and if this was regarded by the committee as a personal matter which might cause public embarrassment. [4912]
§ Mr. Kirkhope[holding answer 19 November 1996]: None. In making its recommendations to my right hon. and learned Friend, the selection committee was guided by the overriding principle of selection based on merit. Sir Frederick was an outstanding candidate.