Isn't this a bit of a non-story? There's no evidence that they were forced to do anything. Nearly every senior job is advertised somewhere.

For example - you can apply to be Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court of Gibraltar if you like https://apply.judicialappointments.digital/vacancy/lQlCzxeR4...

The Royal Navy seems to advertise all levels of jobs on LinkedIn - and wider.

Surely having an open and fair advertisement is better than finding someone you went to school with and discreetly tapping them on the shoulder?