Jack Straw delays appointment of new President of Family Division

Judicial Appointments Commission asked to reconsider its recommendation of Sir Nicholas Wall

Frances Gibb in The Times has reported that the Justice Secretary, Jack Straw, has challenged the recommendation by the selection panel of the Judicial Appointments Commission of Sir Nicholas Wall as the new President of the Family Division.

The post of President is due to become vacant in one month.

The process by which the President is appointed is governed by Part 4 of the Constitutional Reform Act 2005. By section 72 the selection panel submits a report to the Justice Secretary stating who has been selected for the position. The Secretary may accept or reject the selection, or ask the panel to reconsider its choice. Unless he accepts the selection, the Secretary must give reasons for his decision.

According to The Times, the Justice Secretary has requested that the panel reconsider its choice but says that his reason for doing so is not known.

Meanwhile the JAC is inviting applications for two High Court judges in the Family Division from October 2010. The closing date for receipt of applications is noon on 25 March 2010.

For Frances Gibb's report concerning the President's appointment, visit The Times website. If you are interested in becoming a High Court judge, details are on the JAC website.

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