General
The Office of the King’s Lieutenant now known as Lord-Lieutenant stems back to the middle ages. Until comparatively recent times the office holders were principally concerned with the operation of the Militia Acts. The functions of Lord-Lieutenants are now largely ceremonial and include representing the Crown in various capacities e.g. attending visits, attending upon visiting Heads of State, presenting medals and colours. It is usual for the Lord-Lieutenant to chair and advise on the membership of the local advisory committee on justices of the peace, which makes recommendations about who should be appointed JPs.