Lord Bingham, 'UK's most influential lawyer' speaks at BPP Law School

Lord Bingham of Cornhill, senior law lord and former Lord Chief Justice and Master of the Rolls, entertained a lively and engaging audience at BPP Law School tonight with his candid views on a number of issues including: the creation of a Supreme Court in the UK, the qualities of a good advocate, whether the UK needs or should have a written constitution and the impact of criminal justice reforms.

Lord Bingham said: “Having a recognisable Supreme Court in the UK reflects the sort of society that we are and is something that is worth this country investing in.”

When questioned about the actual cost of setting up the Supreme Court, estimated to be approximately £100 million, Lord Bingham opined that the cost was reasonable, certainly when compared to the cost of a helicopter! 

He continued with views on solicitor advocates: “I am in favour of Higher Rights of Audience for all solicitors; it is about properly qualified lawyers operating in a competitive market for the benefit of their clients.”

Commenting on the number of questions relating to the impact of the criminal justice reforms, Jason Hadden, BPP presenter and host for the evening, confirmed: “It was quite clear that a large percentage of the audience shared grave concerns with respect to the legal aid settlements and the present state of the criminal justice system. Whilst Lord Bingham acknowledged their concerns, it clearly is not something which falls within his jurisdiction. ”

‘In conversation with…’, a new series featuring high profile speakers, are free events for the general public, students and lawyers to attend. Each event provides one hour CPD for lawyers.

Future speakers include Constance Briscoe, barrister and best-selling author; Maurice Watkins, Manchester United’s lawyer and former director; and George Galloway MP.