Judicial Perspectives from across the UK - 25 Years of the HRA

Judicial Perspectives from across the UK - 25 Years of the HRA

In this special episode of the Law for Lawmakers podcast, recorded live at the JUSTICE Annual Conference, senior judges from across the UK's three legal jurisdictions reflect on the Rule of Law and the challenges facing the justice system. Featuring Lady Carmichael of the Court of Session, Lord Justice McCloskey of the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland, and Lord Briggs of the UK Supreme Court, the discussion explores how the Human Rights Act has shaped the UK's constitutional landscape over the past 25 years. The panel reflects on the relationship between human rights and the common law, the role of the judiciary in protecting fundamental rights, and the different ways these principles operate across the UK's distinct legal systems.

The Rule of Law: Safeguarding for the Future, with Lord Strathclyde

In this episode of the Law for Lawmakers podcast, Fiona sits down with Lord Strathclyde to explore the constitutional principles that underpin the UK's democracy. Lord Strathclyde discusses the importance of parliamentary scrutiny, the relationship between Parliament, the courts and the executive, and the need for strong institutions to maintain public trust. He also reflects on the strengths of the UK's flexible constitutional arrangements and the challenges posed by devolution, international law, and emerging technologies. Looking to the future, he considers what is needed to ensure democratic resilience in the years to come and offers advice to parliamentarians on the importance of understanding how laws are made.

Rights in Law and Practice: Artificial Intelligence, with Ellen Lefley

In episode six of the Law for Lawmakers podcast, JUSTICE Senior Lawyer Ellen Lefley explores the relationship between artificial intelligence and the Rule of Law, and what it means for Parliament as AI becomes increasingly embedded in public services and the justice system. Drawing on JUSTICE’s research on AI in justice and policing, Lefley discusses the opportunities and risks presented by emerging technologies, arguing that innovation must be guided by established Rule of Law and human rights principles. She also examines the growing use of AI in policing and public decision-making, highlighting the need for stronger oversight and effective parliamentary scrutiny to ensure new technologies strengthen - rather than undermine - the Rule of Law.

The Rule of Law and the City, with Andrew Denny

In episode five of the Law for Lawmakers podcast, Andrew Denny of A&O Shearman explores the relationship between business and the Rule of Law, and reflects on why legal certainty is one of the UK’s greatest economic strengths.  Denny argues that the UK’s historic reputation for upholding the Rule of Law has long played a central role in attracting foreign investment. Maintaining that reputation, he suggests, will be essential if the government is to deliver long-term economic growth.  Reflecting on the wider state of the Rule of Law, Denny warns that growing disagreement over what the term means can distract us from our common ground on the issue.   “The rule of law is vital to our personal freedom, and our freedom as a society,” he tells Fiona Rutherford, adding that he worries “it is slipping from our grasp.”  Drawing on his experience in the legal and business worlds, Denny explores the complex relationship between economic confidence, democratic stability, and the Rule of Law, arguing that its decline would have consequences far beyond the legal sector.

Legal Help for Lawmakers – Scrutinising Legislation, with Karl Turner MP

In this episode of the Law for Lawmakers podcast, Fiona is joined by Karl Turner MP for a conversation on jury trials, parliamentary scrutiny, and the future of the justice system. Turner examines the government’s proposed restrictions on jury trials and the wider implications of the Courts and Tribunals Bill. He reflects on the role of Parliament in scrutinising legislation, stressing that detailed examination by MPs and Peers is essential to identify flaws before laws (whose consequences are often long-lasting) are enacted. Turner argues that the House of Lords plays a vital safeguarding role in this process, describing it as a chamber that can prioritise expertise over politics and act as a check on poorly conceived policy. He also challenges the rationale behind jury reform, criticising the lack of evidence linking jury trials to court backlogs and warning that such measures risk undermining a fundamental protection within the justice system.