Viscount Bledisloe
Michael Deeny, deputy chairman of the Equitas Trust and chairman of the Association of Lloyd’s Members, writes: The important role that Christopher Bledisloe (obituary, May 28) played as an Equitas trustee deserves recognition. Equitas was entrusted with the £16 billion reserves of the old Lloyd’s in 1996 and reinsured 34,000 Names. It was tremendously helpful to have a lawyer of his eminence as a fellow trustee and all Names are under an obligation to him for his valuable contribution.
Lloyd’s is the most complex construct invented by capitalism and Christopher’s first-rate mind had that vital ability to focus on the central issue in any debate and analyse it lucidly and forcefully.
He was no respecter of persons and had a wicked sense of humour, which enlivened some very lengthy meetings in the difficult early days of Equitas.
We are very sad that he has not survived to see the successful final transfer of all liabilities from the Names, which it is hoped will take place this year. He will be greatly missed by his fellow trustees.
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Sir Peter Webster
Michael Soole, QC, writes: Under withering fire from the Lord Chief Justice Lord Lane in the Court of Appeal Criminal Division, a nervous young barrister was floundering badly and losing his thread. Silence. Mr Justice Webster (obituary, June 4), newly appointed to the Bench and very much the junior member of the court, leant forward: “I suppose you might want to argue that . . .” The advocate was back on track; the appeal allowed; and the helping hand never forgotten.