Constitutional Reform Bill [HL]

Part of the debate – in the House of Lords at 4:30 pm on 11 October 2004.

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Photo of Lord Kingsland Lord Kingsland Shadow Lord Chancellor, Parliament 4:30, 11 October 2004

I accept, entirely, that the effect of other clauses in the Bill would prohibit the noble and learned Lord the Lord Chancellor sitting as a judge. However, I am surprised that the Government do not accept—indeed, welcome—the amendment. The driving principle behind the legislation is founded on the separation of powers. Surely the Bill would benefit from a clear statement that the Lord Chancellor will not sit as a judge and will be a purely political figure. Perhaps the noble Baroness will reflect on that between Committee and Report. I beg leave to withdraw the amendment.