Human rights

It was well established that Art 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights required a judge to be impartial and independent of the executive and legislative powers of the state, as well as the parties to a case. In determining whether there was that requisite degree of independence, regard had to be had to: (i) the manner of appointment; (ii) the duration of the term of the office; (iii) the conditions of the office; (iv) the provisions for removability; and (v) the existence of guarantees against outside pressure. It had to be shown that, on an objective basis, there was the appearance of independence and impartiality.