Bailhache sworn in amid protests

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There have been protests while Jersey's new Deputy Bailiff was sworn in.

Jersey has a new Deputy Bailiff despite a protest in the island's Royal Square in St Helier.

William Bailhache, who had been the Attorney General for almost a decade, was sworn in to his new position at the Royal Court.

A group of up to 15 protesters stood outside, blowing whistles and holding placards saying "protest for justice".

One told BBC Jersey he was unhappy with the way the island's judicial system was being run.

'Review of roles'

Mr Bailhache will now act as deputy to the Bailiff - the chief judge and president of Jersey's States.

There is currently a review of the roles of the Bailiff and other crown officers in the island.

There were protests as William Bailhache was sworn in

Prior to the swearing in ceremony, Mr Bailhache told BBC Jersey: "The position as it now stands will require me to spend some time in The States, as well as a fair amount of time in court."

He said: "I hope as Deputy Bailiff I will stand up for all the best things in this island - being welcoming, non discriminatory, being outward looking and certainly looking after the entire community.

"My father was a lawyer, my grandfather was a lawyer, and my son and daughter are both lawyers. It's difficult to criticise a family just because they produce a lot of lawyers."

Mr Bailhache's brother, Sir Philip Bailhache, recently stood down as Bailiff.