The Inquiry Team

Chairman: Dame Janet Smith DBE

Dame Janet, who was born in Stockport, was called to the Bar in 1972. She entered chambers in Manchester and practised in the city for 20 years, specialising in personal injury and clinical negligence cases. She became a QC in 1986.

In 1991, she was appointed by Lancashire County Council to conduct a public inquiry into the ill-treatment of autistic children at Scotforth House, Lancaster. The report was published in 1992, shortly before she was appointed a High Court Judge in the Queen's Bench Division. As a High Court Judge, Dame Janet has conducted many criminal trials, mainly in cases of homicide. On 21 November 2002, Dame Janet was appointed to the Court of Appeal.

Investigative Office

Leading Counsel: Miss Caroline Swift QC

Miss Caroline Swift QC was called to the Bar in 1977, practising on the Northern circuit. Since becoming a QC in 1993 she has specialised in clinical negligence cases and was Counsel to the Scotforth House Inquiry chaired by Dame Janet Smith DBE. Miss Swift has recently been appointed a Deputy High Court Judge.

Senior Counsel: Mr Christopher Melton QC

Mr Melton was called to the Bar in 1982 and also practises on the Northern circuit. His specialism is medical law. Mr Melton was appointed a QC in April 2001.

Junior Counsel: Mr Anthony Mazzag, Mr Michael Jones

Mr Anthony Mazzag and Mr Michael Jones are both in chambers in Manchester.

Solicitor to the Inquiry: Mr Henry Palin

Deputy Solicitor to the Inquiry: Miss Ita Langan