ON Thursday, the Scottish Parliament’s Petitions Committee will once more consider a proposal to implement a register of interests for the judiciary – a matter that has been under consideration for nearly five years.
The petition was lodged just after I became Scotland’s first independent Judicial Complaints Reviewer. I gave evidence to the committee some years ago in support of the register.
It is now time for the committee to act, in view of the widespread support for a register, which includes cross-party support, as well as the backing of my successor in the role.
Only the judiciary has spoken out against it, and arguably it has a vested interest in the matter.
As a ministerially-appointed board member in both Scotland and London, I am rightly required to complete a register of interests to provide assurance to the public that my dealings are above board.
For the same reason, the judiciary should also have to complete such a register. Its powerful position allows its members to remove people’s assets, separate families, and deprive citizens of their liberty.
That is why it is essential not only that it has absolute integrity but also, crucially, that its members are seen to be beyond reproach.
A register of interests would evidence a judicial office holder’s impartiality and lack of vested interest in a case: financially; through family connections; and by club/society membership or in any other way.
Conversely, the refusal to establish a register of interests creates suspicion and undermines judicial credibility.
Thus, a register of interests would be good for the judiciary and good for the public.
Moi Ali,
Meadowhead House,
West Calder.
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