The Lord Chancellor David Lidington has sprung to the defence of Sir Martin Moore-Bick amid claims he should be removed as chairman of the Public Inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire.
A residents' action group has won support of the MP for Kensington, Labour's Emma Dent Coad, in their calls for the former Supreme Court judge to be replaced.
There is concern that the relationship between the head of the inquiry has already been seriously damaged.
Lord Chancellor David Lidington said: "The public inquiry into the Grenfell Tower disaster has understandably been the subject of much commentary.
"People have every right to feel passionate about this. The community – and the whole country – want answers following such a horrific tragedy.
"That is why it is right that there should be a judge-led inquiry into the disaster, and that the residents are consulted before the terms of reference are decided.
"Our judiciary is respected the world over as fair, free from improper influence, and truly independent from government and Parliament. As Lord Chancellor, I am clear that their motives and integrity should always be respected and not impugned by politicians.
"I have complete confidence that Sir Martin Moore-Bick will lead the inquiry into this tragedy with impartiality and with a determination to get to the truth and see justice done."
