Historic judicial post unfilled for months

Published on Friday 15 February 2008 21:12

ONE of the most prestigious and historic judicial posts in Scotland has been empty for months, The Scotsman has learned.

The position of Lord Lyon, King of Arms, the authority on heraldry, has been vacant since Robin Orr Blair stepped down in December.

It means there will be a backlog of cases, some of which could have major commercial significance.

Last night, Romilly Squire, of the Heraldry Society of Scotland, said he believed a report on the appointment had been with the government for some time.

But he said: "For some reason, Alex Salmond appears to be dragging his heels. Previously, it would have been a rubber-stamp process and then the recommendation goes down to the palace, but nothing has happened in this instance."

The office of the Lord Lyon dates back to 1318, when the first holder was inaugurated by Robert the Bruce. The law he enforces dates from 1672, and is one of the few that predates the Treaty of Union in 1707. It requires the Lord Lyon King of Arms and his heralds to "difference the arms of separate persons".

Last night, a Scottish Government spokesman said that an announcement on an appointment could be expected soon.