The spotlight is firmly on the Attorney General, Lord Hermer, as questions continue to swirl around his past legal decisions and clients.
Downing Street’s reluctance to fully support his position has raised further concerns over his future in the role.
With a series of high-profile and controversial clients coming to light, including an Islamist terrorist and other notable figures, Lord Hermer’s actions are under intense scrutiny.
Controversial Clients Spark Public Backlash
It was revealed this week that Lord Hermer defended Abid Naseer, a key figure in an Al-Qaeda terror cell who was just days away from carrying out a bomb attack on a shopping center in Manchester.
His defense of Naseer, which included calling MI5’s case against him “pitiful” and “far-fetched,” has raised alarm.
Naseer was later convicted in the US for plotting the bombing outside the Arndale Centre in Manchester, where he intended to kill hundreds.
In addition to Naseer, Hermer has defended a number of controversial figures in the past, including Sinn Féin’s Gerry Adams, jihadi bride Shamima Begum, and Mustafa al-Hawsawi, one of the individuals involved in the 9/11 attacks.
His history of defending figures associated with terrorism and extremism has raised serious questions about his judgment and suitability for the role of Attorney General.
Downing Street’s Hesitation on Supporting Hermer
When asked about the possibility of Lord Hermer remaining in his post, Downing Street refused to provide a clear answer, simply stating that the Prime Minister had confidence in him.
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister further avoided commenting on whether Hermer would remain in his position for the rest of the current parliamentary term.
The refusal to provide full backing for Hermer’s role has only deepened the sense of uncertainty surrounding his future.
Labour Criticizes Hermer and Calls for Investigation
The recent revelations have caused a stir within political circles, with senior Labour figures voicing strong opposition to Hermer’s continued tenure as Attorney General.
Some have even coined the term “Herminator” to describe his alleged role in blocking certain legislation.
There are calls for an investigation by Sir Laurie Magnus, the Prime Minister’s ethics tsar, to determine if there are any conflicts of interest at play due to his past legal work.
Labour sources have expressed concern about Hermer’s defense of military personnel, including those involved in incidents such as the Iraq War and the tragic Grenfell Tower fire.
He has also come under fire for not disclosing details of his financial interests or whether he has recused himself from making decisions related to former clients.
The Legal System and the ‘Cab Rank Rule’
Lord Hermer has defended his actions by emphasizing the importance of the “Cab Rank Rule,” which mandates that legal professionals take on clients regardless of personal views.
A spokesperson for the Attorney General’s office has reiterated that this rule is fundamental to the legal system and that barristers, like Hermer, do not align themselves with the opinions of their clients.
However, the backlash continues to grow as questions about his suitability for office remain unanswered.
As public and political pressure mounts, the future of Lord Hermer’s position hangs in the balance.
Whether he can weather this storm will depend on how the government responds to the growing criticism and the scrutiny of his past actions.