Lord Reed, President of the Supreme Court, has delivered his valedictory lecture in anticipation of his retirement next year. The lecture focused on the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the ‘Law Lords’ – the Appellate Committee of the House of Lords. The event, attended by leading members of the legal establishment, also served as an opportunity to recognise Lord Reed’s significant contributions to law and public service.
Addressing invited guests, including the Lady Chief Justice of England & Wales, Baroness Carr, and the Dean of Westminster Abbey, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Lord Reed discussed the history and formation of the Appellate Committee and its historical role within the Upper House. The lecture was also streamed live on YouTube and is available for viewing.
During his lecture, Lord Reed also reflected on the establishment of the Supreme Court in 2009, highlighting the opportunities it has created for increased transparency and public engagement.
In conjunction with the President’s lecture, the Supreme Court unveiled a new exhibition commemorating the anniversary of the Law Lords. Located outside Courtroom One and open to the public, the exhibition details the evolution of the House of Lords into the country’s highest appeal court and the establishment of legal expertise in settling matters of national importance. It also features insights from Baroness Hale and Lord Lloyd-Jones.
