It was with some sadness and disappointment that we read of the Bar Council's opposition to extending eligibility for judicial appointment to lawyers other than solicitors and barristers (See [2005] Gazette, 23 June, 4).

Why not? The merits and competency criteria are all important - the only measures to ensure that we continue to have the best judiciary in the world. I would find it difficult to say that I am in favour of increasing diversity, if in the same breath I am prepared to exclude the best candidates for appointment solely on the basis of their professional label.


Diane Burleigh, secretary-general, Institute of Legal Executives, Bedford