The hearing
9. Our aim during the hearing was to test Lord Jay's
ability to withstand parliamentary and public scrutiny should
he take up the post, and his ability to demonstrate robust independence.[3]
We asked questions about his professional competence and personal
independence. We also sought to elicit background information
about his past career and about the selection process for the
post. In the interests of continuing dialogue, we explored Lord
Jay's early thoughts about the future direction of the Commission,
in particular given the statement in the position specification
for the post that the Commission's remit might be extended to
address:
a) the further development of robust, transparent
and rigorous procedures to underpin core activities;
b) the identification of innovative ways of broadening
the "pool" of individuals to be considered for peerages
by the Commission; and
c) the maintenance of active relations with Peers
who have been through the Commission's processes and the assessment
of the effectiveness of the Commission's appointees.[4]
Conclusion
10. We are satisfied that Lord Jay has the professional
competence and personal independence required for the post of
Chair of the House of Lords Appointments Commission. We therefore
welcome his nomination and encourage the Prime Minister to make
the appointment. We wish Lord Jay every success in his new post.
1 Appendix 2 Back
2
Appendix 1 Back
3
The transcript of the hearing will be published separately as
HC 985-II Back
4
Appendix 2 Back
