The Government’s chief legal advisor joined University of Leeds students for a special Q&A on key legal issues.
Attorney General The Rt Hon Lord Hermer KC visited the School of Law and spoke to students about the importance and centrality of the rule of law for a fair society.
He then took part in a Q&A with third year LLB students Francesca Cuevas and Callum Keigher on a range of issues including the European Convention on Human Rights, the legal implications of artificial intelligence and how the rule of law impacts everyone.
In the UK, the rule of law is a fundamental principle that holds everyone, including the government, accountable to the law.
Following the visit, Lord Hermer said: “It was a privilege to meet such talented and engaged law students at the University of Leeds today.
“I left feeling encouraged by the passion and genuine interest they showed in law and justice, upholding the university’s long-held tradition of legal excellence.
“This next generation of lawyers will play a vital role in upholding the rule of law and it is clear that the future of our legal profession is in good hands.”
Lord Hermer was appointed Attorney General in July 2024 and is the government’s principal legal advisor.
An important part of his role is promoting the rule of law. In particular, he wants to educate and engage with young people about the importance of the rule of law and what it means for them.
It states that no-one is above the law, and that laws must be applied equally, protecting fundamental human rights. It also requires an independent judiciary, fair legal processes and adequate protection of fundamental human rights.
Francesca said: “As an aspiring criminal barrister, it was inspirational to meet the Attorney General and hear his insights into the profession.
“This event confirmed my passion for the Bar and defending the independence of the judiciary.”
Callum, who aims to qualify as a solicitor after he graduates next year, added: “Speaking to the Attorney General was such a special opportunity. Hearing him speak so passionately about the rule of law and its real-world impact was captivating.
“My particular favourite was his response to the question on the effect of AI, outlining the debate between human fallibility and technology within the justice system.”
The Attorney General’s role includes a number of public interest functions, such as referring unduly lenient sentences to the court of appeal and dealing with questions of public and international law.
Professor Louise Ellison, Head of the School of Law, said: “The University of Leeds is home to one of the country’s top law schools, and this was the perfect chance to host the Attorney General.
“It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to hear from, and ask questions of the Attorney General, who is doing such important work in promoting the rule of law.”
Further information
Photos: Mark Bickerdike
Please contact Ian Rosser in the University of Leeds press office at I.Rosser@leeds.ac.uk or pressoffice@leeds.ac.uk