Dame Vera Baird will remain Interim Chair to oversee key reforms at the Criminal Cases Review Commission
Dame Vera Baird DBE KC has received a further 12-month appointment as Interim Chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), allowing her to continue leading the organisation through a significant programme of reform.
The Ministry of Justice confirmed that His Majesty the King approved the extension on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. The new term will begin on 9 December 2026 and will run for a further year.
Ministers said they consulted the Commissioner for Public Appointments before making the appointment without a competitive recruitment process. According to the government, the decision is intended to provide continuity while Dame Vera oversees the implementation of recommendations arising from her review of the CCRC. She will also continue work on putting into effect recommendations contained in an inspection report published by HM Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) on the Commission’s casework.
The CCRC is an independent body established under the Criminal Appeal Act 1995 and began operating in 1997. It reviews cases from England, Wales and Northern Ireland where a miscarriage of justice is alleged or suspected. When new evidence or a fresh legal argument raises a real possibility that an appeal court would overturn a conviction or reduce a sentence, the Commission has the power to refer the case back to the courts.
Dame Vera first took up the role of Interim Chair in June 2025 following approval by His Majesty the King. Her initial appointment was made to provide leadership during a period of organisational change and included responsibility for conducting a comprehensive review of the Commission’s operations.
Throughout her career, Dame Vera has held several senior public positions. She previously served as Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Police and Crime Commissioner for Northumbria, Solicitor General for England and Wales, and a Member of Parliament for Redcar. She has also worked as a criminal barrister and remains involved in legal education and public service through academic and advisory roles.
The government also published Dame Vera’s declared political activity, stating that she has undertaken public speaking and held positions within the Labour Party, including campaigning during elections. This disclosure forms part of the public appointments process.
The extension is intended to ensure continuity as the Commission progresses with organisational reforms and implements recommendations designed to strengthen its handling of case reviews and improve its overall effectiveness.