Falconer Gagged
I bumped into our ex-Lord Chancellor last night, who told me of a constitutional anomoly of which I was blissfully unaware. Apparently, since the days of FE Smith, Lord Chancellors have been prevented from practising at the Bar when they retire. This is because it could be perceived that they would be treated favourably by Judges who they had appointed. It’s logical, I suppose, when one recalls the House of Lords overturning the Pinochet Judgment because one of the Judges had been a member of Amnesty International. Justice must be seen to be done, but it’s rather a shame in this case.
Marquee Mark said on October 9th, 2007 at 11:18 am:
Lord ‘elp us - does this mean he’s going to be forced into earning a crust as a ubiquitous “pundit”?
Crispin said on October 9th, 2007 at 9:03 pm:
But then F E Smith had a certain style at the bar which might explain the desire not to have him back - for instance
In court, as a young barrister:
Judge: I have read your case, Mr Smith, and I am no wiser now than I was when I started.
Smith: Possibly not, My Lord, but much better informed.
Judge: Are you trying to show contempt for this court, Mr Smith?
Smith: No, My Lord. I am attempting to conceal it.
Smith (to witness): So, you were as drunk as a judge?
Judge (interjecting): You mean as drunk as a lord?
Smith: Yes, My Lord.