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Anon@1534: this type of positive discrimination, while controversial, is widely used elsewhere. It only operates where two candidates are of equal merit, so if the minority candidate is "fairly ropey" he/she would not be up for consideration (unless all the candidates are "fairly ropey" in which case there is clearly a wider problem.....

The problems you mention in your first two paragraphs are resolvable, usually by a points system: the issue is not really that important as you need select either for the diversity objective.

Positive discrimination can be and often is criticised, but if it is accepted that an all elderly white male judiciary is no longer appropriate, it seems a reasonable approach in the absence of any other suggestions.

Incidentally, I am also a Guardian reader although have not advanced as far as knitting ethnic peace bicycles, whatever they may be.....