Commentary on Sections Lord Chancellor’s Oath Section 17: Lord Chancellor’s Oath
46.Section 17 amends the Promissory Oaths Act 1868 to provide for a new oath to be taken by the Lord Chancellor. The terms of the oath refer to the Lord Chancellor’s roles in relation to the independence of the judiciary, the rule of law and supporting the running of the courts. It will be taken alongside the existing oath of allegiance and official oath (see sections 2 and 3 of the 1868 Act) upon taking up office. As the Lord Chancellor is no longer a judge, he will no longer take the judicial oath (see section 4 of the 1868 Act).