Attorney General swearing-in speech: Rt Hon Ellie Reeves KC MP

My Lady Chief Justice, Lord Chancellor, members of the Court.

It is an honour to take my oath this morning.

It was less than a year ago I was being sworn in as Solicitor General.

It was a job I loved, and gave me an insight into the talent, the dedication and the professionalism of the people who work in the department.

The Attorney General’s Office is a place where we get things done.

So, while I am new to this role, I am not new to the work, and I am pleased to drive it forward.

I want to take a moment to recognise the judiciary and the extraordinary work you do.

You uphold the rule of law with independence and integrity, often in the most difficult and sensitive circumstances.

I will work hard to protect this independence, which is at the core of our justice system.

I look forward to working closely with you, Lady Chief Justice, and with judges across our courts, to strengthen public confidence in our justice system.

I also want to take a moment to pay tribute to Richard Hermer.

It was a privilege to serve alongside him. I learnt a lot from him and owe him a debt of gratitude.

And I am really pleased to have Andy Slaughter as our Solicitor General.

I could not think of a better person to have in the role.

His longstanding experience of Parliament and the criminal justice system will serve him, and all of us, extremely well.

Andy, you often say you’ve only waited 21 years for your appointment.

I think that confirms that you possess two qualities essential for any Law Officer: remarkable patience and an admirable refusal to give up.

And it is a genuine relief to know I will now have you beside me at the Justice Select Committee rather than the other side of the table, asking the difficult questions.

Having served both as the Shadow Solicitor General and as Chair of the Justice Select Committee, I cannot think of a better person to have in this important role.

And of course, it’s a privilege to see our new Lord Chancellor in post.