Her Honour Anne Molyneux MBE Appointed as New Vice Chair of the Parole Board
Her Honour Anne Molyneux MBE has been officially appointed as the Vice Chair of the Parole Board, effective from 6 December 2025. Known for her extensive judicial experience, Molyneux has had a long-standing involvement in the criminal justice system and has previously served in various capacities within the Parole Board.
Judicial Experience
Anne Molyneux boasts decades of experience in the judiciary, having served as a Circuit Judge from 2007 until 2017. She then held the position of Senior Circuit Judge at the Central Criminal Court from 2017 to 2022. Her credentials also include her appointment as a Deputy High Court Judge in 2013, a role she maintained until 2022, and additional duties as a Judge in the Court of Appeal Criminal Division.
Prior to her judicial service, Molyneux qualified as a solicitor in 1983 and was appointed as a Recorder, a judicial role she held from 2000 to 2007. In 2024, she accepted a position as a trustee and Board member of the Access to Justice Foundation, nominated by the Lady Chief Justice.
Connection to the Parole Board
Molyneux’s history with the Parole Board is significant; she served as an Independent Member from 2003 to 2007 and later as a Judicial Member from 2010 to 2019. Her past contributions in these roles have provided her with deep insights into the complexities of parole decisions and processes.
Statements from Leadership
Cecilia French, the Chief Executive of the Parole Board, expressed her enthusiasm regarding Molyneux’s appointment, emphasising her distinguished judicial background and understanding of parole matters. French highlighted the valuable impact Molyneux’s leadership and commitment to justice will have as the Board focuses on public safety and reforming the parole system.
Additionally, French acknowledged the efforts of outgoing Vice Chair His Honour Peter Rook KC, praising his leadership in enhancing transparency and educational initiatives within the Board. She noted that his legacy will continue influencing the Board’s operations.
Future Outlook
In her response, Molyneux conveyed her honour in taking on the role and expressed her admiration for the skill and professionalism of Parole Board members and staff. She looks forward to supporting the Board’s ongoing mission and development in the years to come.
Background
The Parole Board plays a crucial role in the UK’s criminal justice system, responsible for making decisions on the release of prisoners, with an aim to balance public safety and rehabilitation. Recent reforms have been focused on improving transparency and accountability within the parole process, making Molyneux’s role even more significant as she steps into this leadership position.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/parole-board-vice-chair-appointed-her-honour-anne-molyneux-mbe
