Judicial Appointments: Northern Ireland

HL Deb 10 July 2001 vol 626 cc70-1WA

Lord Merlyn-Rees

asked Her Majesty's Government:

When they intend to appoint a Judicial Appointments Commissioner to oversee judicial appointments in Northern Ireland. [HL265]

The Lord Chancellor

Pending a decision on the devolution of justice matters, which are excepted matters under the Northern Ireland Act 1998 and which would require primary legislation, I have decided to subject the appointment of judges and Silks in Northern Ireland to supervision and scrutiny by a commissioner. I have consulted the Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland and others on the necessary adaptations to the model suggested by Sir Leonard Peach for England and Wales, and the post will be advertised in the press from tomorrow.

The early appointment of a commissioner to audit, oversee and monitor all aspects of the existing appointments procedures is a practical step which will advance public confidence and provide strong reassurance about the integrity of the current system.