Michael Gove has been sworn into the "ancient" office of Lord Chancellor at a colourful ceremony at the Royal Courts of Justice in London.
The former chief whip and education secretary was welcomed to his new role - which pre-dates the Norman Conquest - by Lord Chief Justice Lord Thomas and other leading members of the judiciary.
Dressed in traditional gold and black garb, Mr Gove told those gathered in an oak-pannelled courtroom: "I will seek to uphold the independence of the judiciary as long as I hold this office."
Mr Gove, who is also Justice Secretary, said he believed the principles of free speech and trial by jury were at the "heart" of his new role. He pledged to uphold the "rule of law".
Lord Thomas said Mr Gove "brings a wealth of experience to this ancient office".
He added: "In his profession as a journalist, as well as more recently in Parliament, he has demonstrated a combination of forensic analysis, a love of communication and a thirst for ideas.
"These qualities, coupled with his evident energy and enthusiasm, will we hope serve him well in this new role which epitomises tradition, but also demands continual evolution as our justice system develops."
Addressing Mr Gove, Lord Thomas said: "My Lord Chancellor, we warmly welcome you into this ancient office.
"We wish you well as you take up your responsibilities and look forward to working with you in fulfilling our respective roles in the delivery of one of the key responsibilities of the state - the delivery of justice through a shared commitment to judicial independence, access to justice and the rule of law."
The previous lord chancellor was Chris Grayling, who is now Leader of the House of Commons.
Mr Gove, who entered Parliament for Surrey Heath in May 2005, was born in Edinburgh in 1967 and brought up in Aberdeen.
As a journalist he worked for local and national newspapers, radio and TV. At The Times, he worked closely with Frances Lawrence, widow of the murdered headmaster Philip Lawrence, to fight street crime and its causes. He is also an author.
Mr Gove served as shadow minister for housing and planning and shadow secretary of state for children, schools and families, before taking on his role at education following the 2010 general election. He was appointed chief whip last year.
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