Judge LCJ to promote judicial independence

Sir Igor Judge steps into the lord chief justice role from 1 October— and has already sent out a clear warning that he will strive to protect judicial independence. He says: “Like Lord Phillips, I am utterly committed to the principle of judicial independence.

The principle is deeply embedded in our history and our culture and, in the public interest, it must not be undermined or damaged inadvertently or by neglect.”

Sir Igor is currently president of the Queen’s Bench Division and head of criminal justice. He plans to retain the latter post.

He says: “I have already decided to continue as head of criminal justice. Although like Lord Phillips I intend to sit across all the jurisdictions, I shall preside regularly in the Court of Appeal Criminal Division. This reflects my personal interest in the criminal justice system and the importance attached to it by the community at large.”

Lord Phillips says: “I can think of no-one better suited than Sir Igor to take on the responsibilities of the post. His excellent leadership qualities will stand him, and all judges, in great stead when he takes over from me as head of the judiciary.”

The appointment of three new lord justices of appeal—Mr Justice Aikens, Mr Justice Goldring and Mr Justice Jackson—has also been announced.