Four Judges Leave Men-Only Garrick Club Amid Criticism
Four senior judges have quit the men-only Garrick Club due to increased scrutiny over its exclusion of women.
This includes appeal court judge Keith Lindblom and high court judges Nicholas Cusworth, Nicholas Lavender, and Ian Dove. The resignations, reported by the Judicial Office, may prompt more departures.
The Garrick Club, known for barring female members, faces criticism at a high judicial level. Lady Chief Justice Sue Carr emphasized the need for diversity and inclusivity in the legal field in response to the controversy.
Their decision follows resignations from high-profile figures like the head of the civil service, Simon Case, and MI6 chief, Richard Moore, after criticism for their membership. An open letter urging judicial members to resign cited incompatibility with justice principles, signed by over 80 lawyers.
A second letter, spotlighting the conflict with judiciary conduct guidelines, gained traction among legal professionals. It argues that the club's policy conflicts with the judiciary's commitment to equality and fairness.
Campaigners hope these resignations signal a broader shift, pressuring the Garrick Club to modernize and admit women. Advocates for judicial reform and inclusivity see this moment as a potential catalyst for change in professional organizations that maintain outdated, discriminatory practices.