Lord Colbeck Appointed Chairman of Sheku Bayoh Inquiry
Supreme Court judge Lord Colbeck has been named the new chairman of the Sheku Bayoh Inquiry, replacing Lord Bracadale, who stepped down after concerns regarding his impartiality. The announcement was made by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, highlighting the urgency to progress the inquiry following a three-month hiatus.
Resignation of Lord Bracadale
Lord Bracadale’s resignation came amidst controversy over his private meetings with Mr Bayoh’s family during the inquiry process. Initial complaints brought by the Scottish Police Federation challenged his ability to remain unbiased, prompting the former judge to ultimately resign after facing pushback, including a judicial review of his position.
Despite previously stating that his interactions aimed to build trust with the Bayoh family, Lord Bracadale acknowledged that the confidence of other core participants had been compromised.
Response from the Bayoh Family and Legal Representatives
Solicitor Aamer Anwar, representing the Bayoh family, expressed support for Lord Colbeck, praising his strong reputation and no-nonsense approach. Anwar remarked, “It will be no simple task for the chair to take over the reins of Lord Bracadale, but the evidence has been heard… it is time to restart the stopwatch.”
Background of the Inquiry
The inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of Sheku Bayoh, who died in 2015 after being restrained by police officers in Kirkcaldy, Fife, seeks to investigate potential race considerations and the broader implications for policing. Following the Crown Office’s decision not to pursue legal action against the involved officers, the inquiry gained significance as a means to scrutinise both the investigation and any possible racial dimensions to the incident.
Future Steps in the Inquiry
All evidence has already been considered as part of the inquiry, with closing submissions expected to follow as Lord Colbeck assumes his role officially on 2 March. David Kennedy, the general secretary of the Scottish Police Federation, welcomed the new chairman’s appointment and expressed a commitment to a fair and transparent conclusion to the inquiry process.
Lord Colbeck’s Background
Lord Colbeck’s judicial career spans various roles, including his recent appointment as a Supreme Court judge in May 2023. He has also served as sheriff principal and vice president of the Sheriff Appeal Court. His experience includes chairing a fatal accident inquiry into the 2013 Clutha helicopter crash in Glasgow, further establishing his suitability for overseeing the Bayoh Inquiry.
Ms Forbes highlighted the importance of a timely conclusion to the inquiry, stating her confidence in Lord Colbeck’s extensive experience within the Scottish justice system to guide the process forward.
Source: Original Article
