A new law cementing a justice system independent from political interference has passed its first hurdle.

The Council of Ministers (Amendment) Bill puts the rule of law on a statutory footing and places an obligation on government ministers to uphold the independence of the judiciary.

MHKs approved the principles of the bill in the House of Keys on Tuesday, when it was granted a second reading.

Department of Home Affairs member Dr Alex Allinson (Ramsey) moved the bill and said the ’principles of the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary are key to our freedoms as a democratic society’.

The principles, although unwritten, had served the island well. But it was decided it was appropriate to put them into statute, he said.

’Times are changing and as a proud nation and an international financial and business centre we are experiencing ever more scrutiny from the international community.’

Currently, responsibility for ensuring the rule of law and independent judiciary lies with the Lieutenant Governor on behalf of the Crown. The bill puts that responsibility with the Council of Ministers as well.

’It represents another step along the road of our country taking fuller and greater responsibility for its own affairs and represents a further constitutional development on the part of the island,’ said Dr Allinson.

He said the bill showed the island was a ’mature and progressive jurisdiction’ and sent out a message that everyone would receive independent justice, free from political interference.

Lawrie Hooper (LibVannin, Ramsey), asked whether it was the intention to follow up the recommendation of a select committee that there should be a single ministerial responsibility for the justice portfolio.

Dr Allinson said he would put the question to Home Affairs Minister Bill Malarkey, who was not able to attend Tuesday’s sitting.

The Bill will face more detailed scrutiny at the clauses stage.