TNAG-0196-FCO40-232-Judiciary-appointments-1970 — Page 42

NOTHING TO BE WRITTEN IN THIS MARGIN

W(B)L SI-7406

that the margin between the two candidates is not wide enough to justify the risks attached to an adverse reaction to Sir Ivo Rigby's supersession. He fears that Mr. Blair-Kerr's appointment would be interpreted on the Bench and by the Bar as a capricious disregard of the claims of seniority and a decision made on the

11

'unprofessional" judgment of the executive.

We do not dissent from this view of the

situation. Sir Ivo Rigby, while not an ideal choice, has the makings of a Chief Justice and, it is judged, sufficient

awareness of his own limitations to ensure

that they do not impair his performance of the office during the three and a half years he will occupy it. In the circumstances we support the Governor's recommendation for the

appointment of Sir Ivò Rigby.