The Home Affairs Committee today held a pre-appointment hearing with Mr Denis O'Connor, the preferred candidate for HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary.

  We were favourably impressed by Mr O'Connor, who seemed to have a very good grasp of the issues, was willing to express himself forcefully when necessary, and who displayed a measured, sensible approach to the conflicting interests he would have to balance.

  We are happy to endorse Mr O'Connor's appointment.