Committee hears evidence from inquiry assessors
4 December 2013
The Committee took evidence from a former Chief Executive of the Financial Times who advised Sir Brian Leveson on media issues, and from the Director of Policy of the Nuffield Trust who advised Robert Francis QC in the Mid Staffordshire inquiry.
Some inquiry Chairmen, especially in inquiries dealing with specialist topics, are assisted by assessors who can advise them in private on technical issues. Chairmen can also receive expert evidence during public sessions. The Committee is to take evidence from two former assessors, in their inquiry into the Inquiries Act 2005.
Witnesses
At 10.40am, Wednesday 4 December 2013, Committee Room 4, Palace of Westminster:-
- Sir David Bell, former Chief Executive of the Financial Times who advised Sir Brian Leveson on media issues.
- Dr Judith Smith, the Director of Policy of the Nuffield Trust who advised Robert Francis QC in the Mid Staffordshire inquiry, and also gave expert evidence to his inquiry.
Purpose of the session
The Lords asked the witnesses for their views on the appointment of assessors, the role of expert witnesses, and their experiences of the role of assessor.
Further information
- Call for evidence: Select Committee on the Inquiries Act 2005
- About Parliament: Select Committees
- Visiting Parliament: Select Committees
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