The review of the Charities Act should re-examine the way that Attorney General’s references play out in the sector, according to Charity Tribunal president Alison McKenna.

Two of the three tribunal judges that will hear the case on public benefit of independent schools were themselves privately educated, but do not think that private schools are the “best thing since sliced bread”, lead judge Mr Justice Warren said today.

Alison McKenna, the principal judge of the Charity Tribunal, has attacked the preference of many charity lawyers to settle disputes through the Charity Commission’s internal review process rather than through the Tribunal, saying it adds unnecessary expense for the charities involved and thwarts the original intent for the Tribunal to help evolve case law.

Charities should have their say on tribunal reform, says Alison McKenna. Over the past year the Charity Tribunal has appointed and trained a cadre of specialist legal and ordinary members who have the expertise and experience to hear charity cases. Now, we have the opportunity to adapt the rules and procedures of the Tribunal to fit with the unique sector it serves and I want your help.