The Honourable Mr Justice Swift appointed Deputy Chair of Boundary Commission for England

The Lord Chancellor, in an official announcement from the Ministry of Justice and the Boundary Commission for England, has appointed The Honourable Mr Justice Swift as the Deputy Chair of the Boundary Commission for England (BCE). This significant appointment, effective from 16 February 2024 to 15 February 2027, underscores the crucial role Justice Swift will play in the periodic review of parliamentary constituencies in England, as mandated by the Parliamentary Constituencies Act 1986.

The Commissioner for Public Appointments, overseeing the adherence to regulations, has ensured that these appointments align with Section 3(a) of Schedule 1 of the Parliamentary Constituencies Act 1986 and the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

The BCE, functioning as an advisory non-departmental public body sponsored by the Cabinet Office, carries out reviews every five years to ensure the equitable representation of constituencies. Mr Justice Swift's appointment comes at a critical juncture as the BCE undertakes the responsibility of redrawing constituency boundaries.

Hailing from Essex, he received his education at Southend-on-Sea High School for Boys and pursued law at New College, Oxford, and Emmanuel College, Cambridge. Called to the Bar in 1989 at Inner Temple, he further expanded his legal reach by joining the Northern Ireland Bar in 2008. His elevation to the position of High Court judge in 2018, presiding over the King’s Bench Division, reflects his profound legal expertise.

Since March 2020, Mr Justice Swift has held the position of Judge in Charge of the Administrative Court, demonstrating his administrative prowess. Prior to donning the robes, he served as a barrister at 11 King’s Bench Walk, earning distinction as First Treasury Counsel between 2007 and 2014.

This appointment not only recognises Mr Justice Swift's legal acumen and extensive experience but also emphasises the critical role the Boundary Commission for England plays in shaping the electoral landscape. As Deputy Chair, Mr Justice Swift is poised to contribute significantly to the fair and democratic representation of constituencies across England.