Oliver Glasgow KC to lead distinguished legal team in the Independent Inquiry relating to Afghanistan

Background

On 15 December 2022 the Secretary of State for Defence announced the Government’s decision to formally establish an independent Inquiry under the Inquiries Act 2005 to investigate certain matters arising from the deployment of British armed forces to Afghanistan between mid-2010 and mid-2013.

The Inquiry is chaired by the Rt. Hon. Lord Justice Haddon-Cave.

Under the terms of reference, the Inquiry is tasked with investigating:

1. Whether the investigations carried out by the Royal Military Police were properly and effectively conducted (in particular, Operation Northmoor and Operation Cestro).
2. Whether there is credible information that extra judicial killings (EJK) were carried out by British armed forces in Afghanistan during this period (and whether any matters should be passed to the Prosecuting Authorities to investigate).
3. Whether the circumstances of any such EJK were covered up at any stage.
4. What lessons are to be learned.

The full terms of reference can be found on the documents page.

On his appointment Lord Justice Haddon-Cave said:

“I am honoured to have been appointed to chair this Inquiry. It is important to establish the truth, or otherwise, of the grave allegations which are the focus of the Terms of Reference. They touch on the fine reputation of the military and the UK. The public, and all those who serve in the military, are entitled to expect a fair, fearless and thorough examination of the facts and clear answers to the questions raised. I will seek to achieve this within a reasonable timescale.” And “I am supported by a distinguished legal team led by Oliver Glasgow KC and, Piers Doggart Solicitor to the Inquiry, and a Secretariat team. I will also be able to draw on the expertise of a number of specialist Military and other advisers.”

More information can be found on the IIA website:  Home | Team | News | Hearings | Documents | FAQ

IIA Appointed Counsel to Inquiry:

Oliver Glasgow KC (2 Hare Court)

Jonathan Polnay (5KBW)

Kerry Broome (QEB Hollis Whiteman)

Julia Faure Walker (2 Hare Court)

Piers Doggart (Eversheds Sutherland)