06 May 2008
Sir Michael Bichard has today announced that he will take up a new post as Director of a new Institute for Government, funded by the Gatsby Charitable Foundation, in September 2008. He will therefore be standing down as Chair of the Legal Services Commission at the end of August.
Commenting on Sir Michael's resignation, Justice Secretary Jack Straw said:
'I would like to thank Michael for the commitment and dedication he has shown as Chair of the Legal Services Commission. He leaves the Commission in a much stronger position than when he took up his post, and I wish him well in his new role.'
The Legal Aid Minister Lord Hunt added:
'Michael has brought vast experience and exceptional leadership to the role of Chair of the Commission. He has led the Legal Services Commission through a very demanding period of reform over the past three years, delivering a sustainable system of legal aid. I am sorry to see him go.'
Carolyn Regan, Chief Executive of the Legal Services Commission commented:
'Michael has steered the Legal Services Commission through some of its most challenging times and its periods of greatest achievement. I have been privileged to work with him and to learn from his skills and experience at first hand.'
A recruitment exercise to find a new Chair of the Legal Services Commission will be launched shortly. The appointment will be made in accordance with guidance from the Commissioner for Public Appointments.
Notes for editors
1. The Legal Services Commission is the public body that runs the legal aid scheme in England and Wales, with an annual budget of approximately £2.1 billion per annum. Working in partnership with solicitors' firms, barristers and advice agencies, it ensures that some of society's most vulnerable people get the information, advice and legal help they need to deal with a wide range of problems.