Committee publication · Correspondence · 9 June 2026
Letter from the Minister of State for Policing and Crime relating to the recruitment of new HM Chief Inspector of Policing and Chief Inspector of Fire & Rescue Authorities in England (HMCI) 19.03.2026
From: Home Affairs Committee
Summary
The Minister of State for Policing and Crime notifies the Home Affairs Committee Chair of interim leadership arrangements for His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS). Michelle Skeer OBE QPM has been approved by the King as interim HMCI for six months from 1 April 2026, following Sir Andy Cooke's departure on 31 March, to ensure continuity while a permanent recruitment competition proceeds.
Key findings
- Sir Andy Cooke QPM DL steps down as HMCI on 31 March 2026
- Michelle Skeer OBE QPM appointed interim HMCI for six months from 1 April 2026 to ensure continuity of leadership
- Skeer has 36 years' experience in policing and fire services, including as chief constable of Cumbria Constabulary and vice chair of National Police Chiefs' Council
- Since joining HMICFRS in 2023, Skeer has overseen North of England inspections and led national portfolios on domestic abuse, child protection, and police engagement with women and girls
- A permanent HMCI recruitment competition will run during the interim period
Tone
ProceduralTopics
policingpublic-administrationfire-servicespersonnel-appointments
Key actors
Sarah Jones MP, Dame Karen Bradley MP, Sir Andy Cooke QPM DL, Michelle Skeer OBE QPM, His Majesty the King, HMICFRS
Notable line
“Michelle Skeer will take up the interim HMCI role with effect from 1 April, which will enable a smooth transition to a new permanent HMCI.”
Key Quotes
“To ensure continuity of leadership for HMICFRS, His Majesty the King, has approved the appointment of one of the current inspectors, Michelle Skeer OBE QPM, as 'interim HMCI' for a period of six months”
“Michelle Skeer brings a collection of 36 years of experience across policing and fire and rescue service.”
Source · parliament.uk record ↗