Government under fire over ‘conflict of interest’ concerns for Attorney General
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The Government has refused to reveal which matters the Attorney General will recuse himself from advising ministers on, prompting suggestions that his position is not “tenable”. Questions were raised over how Lord Richard Hermer KC’s previous work, including representing former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams, could result in possible conflicts of interest in his role as the Government’s top legal adviser.
Solicitor General Lucy Rigby said a “rigorous process” is in place for dealing with conflicts of interest and Lord Hermer will recuse himself from matters where there is such an issue. She added the law officers’ convention does not permit her to reveal which matters the Attorney General has advised on and which matters he has recused himself.
The Conservatives have requested an investigation by Cabinet Secretary Sir Chris Wormald in relation to Lord Hermer, including on the “representation of Gerry Adams in matters related to the Legacy Act”. Lord Hermer last week said he represented Mr Adams on “something unconnected to the Legacy” and also represented the family of a young British soldier murdered by the IRA in the 1970s.
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 stopped former Troubles internees such as Mr Adams from seeking compensation, although the Labour Government has proposed repealing and replacing the legislation. Shadow solicitor general Helen Grant, asking an urgent question (UQ), told the Commons: “The Attorney General previously represented former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams in a damages claim brought forward by victims of IRA bombings. Indeed, we know that he received £30,000 for that representation.
