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Written question asked by Nick Timothy (Conservative) on Monday, 7 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 9 September 2026. It was answered by Jake Richards (Labour) on Wednesday, 16 September 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.

Christina Pagel

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, (a) why the Minister for Courts and Legal Services decided to appoint Professor Christina Pagel as an adviser on court efficiency and modernisation, (b) whether she or Professor Pagel declared any conflict of interests regarding their personal friendship with each other, and (c) whether any other candidates were considered for the role in addition to Professor Pagel and Professor Martin Utley.

Answer

Professor Christina Pagel of University College London was appointed as an unpaid adviser on court efficiency and modernisation on 21 January 2026 along with her colleague Professor Martin Utley. Her appointment will conclude on 21 January 2027.

Professor Pagel was appointed due to her expertise in operational research. She served as Vice President of the UK Operational Research Society from 2021-2025. She is also President Elect of the Operational Research Society for 2026, with her Presidential term running 2027-2029. Together with her colleague, Professor Martin Utley, she has significant expertise and experience in applied mathematical research and public policy.

Direct Ministerial Appointments have been made under successive administrations, and those holding these roles play a vital role in providing expert, independent advice to the Government of the day on a range of matters. For all Direct Ministerial Appointments, a formal declaration of interest is completed by the candidate and, if necessary, any mitigations are considered by the senior civil servant sponsor to manage any potential, actual or perceived conflicts. Professor Pagel’s friendship with the Minister was declared through this process.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
27591
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Conflict of interests Public appointments Ministry of Justice Pagel, Christina Utley, Martin
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk