Judicial appointments system failing ethnic minorities

Eight judges are calling for a parliamentary inquiry into ‘systemic’ discrimination against ethnic minorities, claiming that bullying and biased leadership structures are preventing black and ethnic minority judges from reaching the top jobs.

The group of judges has penned a letter to the Justice Select Committee, shared with the Sunday Times, but asked to remain anonymous as judges are not allowed to speak out against the legal system.

They called for an inquiry into “discrimination, bullying and leadership structures within the judiciary, and of the system for appointment and promotion of judges”, criticising the Judicial Appointments Commission for favouring candidates “from prosperous traditional backgrounds” who are well connected.

The group of judges also reported that it witnessed racist behaviour towards ethnic minority barristers and defendants.

To read the full article, click here.