Lord Neuberger of Abbotsbury, 61, the youngest of the law lords, is to become Master of the Rolls from 1 October. As head of England and Wales’ civil justice system he will be the second most senior judge. He will succeed Lord Clarke of Stone-cum-Ebony, who has been appointed a law lord.

The Master of the Rolls dates back to the 13th century or earlier and was initially a clerk responsible for keeping the rolls – or records – of the Chancery Court. Today, in addition to judicial duties, the Master of the Rolls is responsible for registering solicitors.