Gordon Hewart, 1st Viscount Hewart, English judge and politician, 7th Lord Chief Justice of England (d. 1943)

Gordon Hewart: A Distinguished British Politician and Lord Chief Justice

Gordon Hewart, 1st Viscount Hewart (7 January 1870 – 5 May 1943), was a profoundly influential figure in the United Kingdom, leaving an indelible mark across both the political and judicial landscapes during the early 20th century. His remarkable career journey spanned from a successful barrister and Liberal Member of Parliament to the esteemed position of Lord Chief Justice of England, showcasing his sharp intellect and unwavering dedication to public service.

Born in Bury, Lancashire, Hewart received a robust education at Manchester Grammar School before matriculating at University College, Oxford. This academic foundation paved the way for his call to the Bar at the Inner Temple in 1902, where he quickly gained recognition for his legal prowess and advocacy.

A Significant Political Ascent

Hewart's entry into the political arena began with his election as a Liberal Member of Parliament (MP) for Leicester in 1913. His parliamentary career was marked by rapid progression through key governmental roles during a tumultuous period, including the First World War and its aftermath. He served with distinction as Solicitor General from 1916 to 1919, a role that saw him advise the Crown and government on legal matters. Subsequently, he was appointed Attorney General for England and Wales, holding this crucial position from 1919 until 1922. In these capacities, Hewart was instrumental in shaping national legal policy and navigating complex parliamentary proceedings.

Lord Chief Justice and "The New Despotism"

In 1922, Gordon Hewart transitioned from active politics to the pinnacle of the English judiciary, becoming the Lord Chief Justice of England. He held this prestigious office for eighteen years until 1940. His tenure as Lord Chief Justice is particularly renowned for his vigorous defence of judicial independence and his profound critique of the expanding administrative state.

This critique was most famously articulated in his highly influential book, "The New Despotism," published in 1929. In this seminal work, Hewart vociferously argued against the increasing practice of Parliament delegating significant legislative and judicial powers to government departments and civil servants. He contended that such delegations posed a severe threat to the rule of law and individual liberties, as they circumvented traditional parliamentary scrutiny and judicial oversight. Hewart warned that this trend could lead to arbitrary governance, effectively creating a "new despotism" where executive power operated beyond proper checks and balances, thereby eroding the established common law principles foundational to British justice.

Legacy and Recognition

For his extensive public service and his enduring contributions to law and governance, Gordon Hewart was elevated to the peerage in 1940, becoming the 1st Viscount Hewart. He passed away on 5 May 1943. His legacy continues to influence legal and political discourse, particularly his warnings regarding the potential overreach of administrative power and his staunch advocacy for the separation of powers and judicial independence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Gordon Hewart

Who was Gordon Hewart?

Gordon Hewart (1870–1943) was a prominent British politician and judge, best known for serving as the Lord Chief Justice of England and for authoring "The New Despotism," a significant legal text.

What was his most famous contribution to law?

His most famous contribution to legal thought is "The New Despotism" (1929), a book that critically examined the growth of administrative law and the delegation of powers to government departments, arguing it threatened the rule of law and individual freedoms.

What high offices did Gordon Hewart hold?

Before becoming Lord Chief Justice of England in 1922, he served as a Liberal Member of Parliament, Solicitor General (1916-1919), and Attorney General for England and Wales (1919-1922).

When did he become Lord Chief Justice?

He was appointed Lord Chief Justice of England in 1922 and held the position until 1940.

What does '1st Viscount Hewart' signify?

It signifies the peerage title conferred upon him in 1940, making him a member of the House of Lords and acknowledging his distinguished career and public service.