The Conservative Party is taking aim at activist judges. Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick made this pledge. He delivered a fiery speech at the party conference. He argued that the judiciary has been compromised. Furthermore, he promised a major institutional overhaul. He specifically targeted judges with ties to pro-migrant charities. He claimed these activist judges have eroded public trust.
Therefore, Jenrick held a judge’s wig as a powerful prop. He said some individuals blur important lines. They confuse adjudication with political activism. Consequently, he announced a bold policy plan. A Tory government would abolish the Judicial Appointments Commission. This body was established by Tony Blair’s government in 2006. Its creation reduced ministerial power over selecting judges.
Furthermore, Jenrick argued this change is vital for democracy. It would restore the proper role of government. Ultimate power must belong to Parliament and ministers. Therefore, the justice secretary would regain appointment control. This minister would receive a clear instruction. They must never permit activist judges to wear the wig. The party conference loudly applauded this proposal.
However, he also revealed further investigative work. He said he found dozens of concerning judges. These individuals broadcast “open borders” views online. Others spent careers fighting for illegal migrants. Such actions dishonor the legal profession he stated. They betray generations of independent jurists. Most judges, he conceded, still revere their symbolic wig.
Moreover, the plans include new transparency rules. Judges would publicly register their charitable affiliations. A judicial conduct watchdog would also gain new powers. Additionally, the Tories would abolish the Sentencing Council. Jenrick argued this Blair-era body is not fit for purpose. This follows a recent “two-tier” justice row over sentencing guidelines.
However, the proposals face significant criticism. Former Supreme Court judge Lord Sumption issued a warning. He said the plans risk American-style politicization. The only reason for this change is to appoint less independent judges. He believes the goal is more political judiciary.
Therefore, Jenrick’s speech covered other political topics too. He joked about his Labour opponent’s past game show errors. He also mocked the Prime Minister’s leadership style. His energetic delivery fueled speculation about his own ambitions. He remains a prominent figure within the party.
Despite internal dynamics, he backed the current leader. He stated he expects Kemi Badenoch to lead into the next election. The party conference continues to debate its future direction. The clash with activist judges remains a central theme. This issue will likely feature heavily in the next campaign.
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