Attorney General names six KCs to new Senior Treasury Counsel Group

The six silks are:

• Jonathan Crow KC of 4 Stone Buildings
• Marie Demetriou KC of Brick Court Chambers
• Kate Grange KC of 39 Essex Chambers
• Tim Otty KC of Blackstone Chambers
• Jason Pobjoy KC of Blackstone Chambers, and
• Julia Smyth KC of Landmark Chambers.

The Attorney General’s Office and the Government said members of the group would lead on specific cases, enabling the First Treasury Solicitor Counsel “to provide the best service possible for the government”.

Sir James, a barrister at Blackstone Chambers, will now be able to undertake privately-funded work.

The six silks will also provide legal leadership to the Attorney General’s Civil Panel Counsel, champion diversity in the profession and support junior counsel to develop their careers. 

Attorney General Lord Hermer said:  “External counsel work on some of the most complex and sensitive legal issues of the day. Their expertise and skill play a vital role helping this government deliver its mission to enable growth, protect our communities and deliver change for all. 

“The six appointed are an extremely experienced and talented set of barristers, and their expert legal counsel and leadership will ensure the government can deliver for the British people effectively and efficiently.”

Treasury Solicitor and GLD’s Permanent Secretary, Susanna McGibbon KC (Hon) said: “As the government’s principal legal advisers, GLD handles thousands of litigation cases and advises on a wide range of legal issues in support of government priorities at any given time. From national security to international law and planning to immigration, we value the support of experienced external counsel. 

“Establishing this group to work alongside the Government Legal Profession will allow for greater resilience and strategic oversight – ensuring efficiency in how external counsel are used – and I look forward to working closely with them in responding to the legal challenges faced by government.”