A Family Affair: Boris And The Johnson Children Trail Behind His Wife Marina Wheeler As She Is Made A QC Alongside Former Labour Leader Ed Miliband's Spouse

Justine Miliband, 45, left, and inset with her husband Ed, and Marina Wheeler, 52, right, and inset with her husband Boris Johnson, were among 107 senior barristers to be appointed to the prestigious legal position of Queen's Counsel at a ceremony in central London.

Known as 'taking silk' because of the right it confers to wear special robes in court to reflect their seniority - the lawyers can also command an hourly rate of in excess of £2,500-an-hour. 

Ms Wheeler and Ms Thornton, who both work under their maiden names, join Cherie Blair on the list of politician's wives to become QCs.