The employment tribunals are not biased and the Judicial Appointments Commission is not politicised (see [2008] Gazette, 11 December, 10).

The information pack we have sent to every applicant for these posts says: ‘The purpose of this judicial office is to administer justice in the Employment Tribunals in accordance with the laws of England and Wales.’

Martin Mears is right to say that judges must be impartial. One of the personal qualities against which all candidates for judicial office are assessed by the JAC is ‘integrity and independence of mind’. I am sorry if the wording of this advertisement did not make this clear.

The JAC is independent, and in line with our statutory duty we select solely on merit by fair and open competition.

Clare Pelham chief executive, Judicial Appointments Commission