Crown Advocate Hilary Pullum has been appointed as His Majesty’s Comptroller, succeeding Robert Titterington KC, the current postholder who is retiring, and her sister who used to do the job.
The role of His Majesty’s Comptroller, also known as His Majesty’s Solicitor General, is crucial to the legal framework of Guernsey and the Bailiwick as a whole.
The postholder provides essential legal services and advice to several entities, including The Crown, the States of Guernsey, the States of Alderney, and the Chief Pleas of Sark.
Additionally, the HM Comptroller also holds the office of His Majesty’s Deputy Receiver General.
Ms Pullum said taking on her new role is a privilege.
“Having served the Bailiwick as one of the lawyers within the Chambers of the Law Officers of the Crown since 2007, it is a privilege to be appointed as His Majesty’s Comptroller and I will look forward to continuing to serve the Bailiwick in this post.”
The position of His Majesty’s Comptroller is deeply historical, with the first recorded appointment dating back to the sixteenth century. This highlights its long-standing importance in Guernsey’s governance.
Crown Advocate Pullum brings a wealth of experience to the role. She initially qualified as a solicitor in London, specialising in aerospace law, before moving to Guernsey in 2007. Since then, she has been a key figure within the Chambers of the Law Officers of the Crown, becoming a Crown Advocate in 2014 and holding directorial positions in civil law. Her long tenure and progression within Guernsey’s legal system demonstrate her deep understanding of the Bailiwick’s unique legal landscape.
Ms Pullum is scheduled to be sworn into the role this Summer (Tuesday, 26 August).
Guernsey’s Lieutenant-Governor, Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell CBE, welcomed the appointment; “Like that of His Majesty’s Procureur, the role of His Majesty’s Comptroller is central to the operation of the Royal Court and therefore to the Bailiwick itself.
“It is a busy role and I am delighted that it is to be filled by a candidate with the expertise and experience of Crown Advocate Pullum. I wish her every success.”
Ms Pullum’s sister, Megan Pullum is now the Procurer. She was the first woman appointed as both Comptroller and Procurer in Guernsey.