An electrode 1 for a jawed electrosurgical instrument has a tissue contacting surface 2 and a connection portion 8 comprising a crimp portion 12 and a support portion 9. The crimp portion 12 comprises a plate 10 which can be folded over the end of a lead 11 to form an electrical connection between the lead 11 and the electrode 1. The support portion 9 forms an electrical connection between the crimp portion 12 and the electrode 1, and is shaped and/or oriented such that the crimp portion 12 lies underneath the tissue contacting surface 2 at a proximal end of the electrode 1. Such an arrangement allows for the lead 11 to emerge from the crimp portion 12 in a proximal direction. The position of the connection portion 8 further allows for it, including the crimp portion 12, to be encapsulated within an overmoulded polymer component (16, Fig 2) providing less of an opportunity for a short to form between the lead 11 and any other conductive components. A method of manufacturing a jaw member for an electrosurgical instrument is also taught.
