During the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the independence of the judiciary and lawyers, the United Kingdom made a statement.
Here is the transcript of the statement as it was delivered:
“Thank you, Special Rapporteur.
“An independent judiciary and legal profession are vital to the proper functioning of a democracy. They are essential to ensuring equality before the law and delivering independent and impartial justice.
“We support the report, in particular the focus on protecting legal professionals and their ability to safely offer legal advice.
“We share your concerns on the increasing trends of interference with and attacks against the legal profession.
“The UK recognises the importance of safeguarding legal professionals, which is why we are a strong advocate for a binding Council of Europe instrument on the profession of a lawyer.
“The UK fully respects the constitutional position of judges and the judiciary. The separation of powers between the executive and judicial branches is underpinned by our constitutional and statutory framework.
“Regardless of our strength in this space, the UK fully supports the identification of ways to further improve the independence of the judicial branch and the legal profession.
“Special Rapporteur,
“What can States do internationally to promote and encourage compliance with the Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers?
“Thank you.”