HC Deb 29 March 2004 vol 419 cc1173-4W
Mr. Gordon Prentice

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Department for Constitutional Affairs whether the rules preventing former Lord Chancellors from returning to practise law are to be waived in the case of the present incumbent. [162597]

Mr. Leslie

No. I refer my hon. Friend to the Prime Minister's written answer to the hon. Member for North-East Hertfordshire (Mr. Heald) of 25 June 2003,Official Report, column 792W.

Mr. Gordon Prentice

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Department for Constitutional Affairs for what reasons former Lord Chancellors are prohibited from practising law; and if he will make a statement. [162599]

Mr. Leslie

By convention, judges have not returned to practice after retirement (and this is now included in judicial terms of appointment). The convention ensures the integrity and impartiality of the justice system. This convention has also been adhered to by former Lord Chancellors given their judicial status and role in the administration of justice. The rules, set out in the Ministerial Code, relating to the acceptance of appointments after leaving ministerial office, also apply.