In view of public speculation, Lord Judge, Lord Chief Justice has decided to announce that he will continue in office until the end of September 2013, when he will retire.

He has written to the Lord Chancellor to inform him of his decision.

The process to appoint his successor as Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales will begin in early 2013.

-ends-

Notes to editors:

1. For further biographical detail on Lord Judge see: http://www.judiciary.gov.uk/about-the-judiciary/judges-magistrates-and-tribunal-judges/biographies/biography-lcj