Government will work with sports organisations such as the Premier League and basketball, boxing and cycling bodies to increase sports activity in youth crime hot spots

Following a meeting of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) board where they agreed that there is a public interest in a statutory investigation, the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, John Glen, has agreed to use powers under the Financial Services Act 2012 to require the FCA to undertake an investigation into events at LC&F and the circumstances surrounding them.

The investigation will be led by an independent person appointed by the FCA, with the approval of the Treasury.

The Economic Secretary to the Treasury, John Glen, said:

The recent stories of those affected by the collapse of LC&F are incredibly concerning.

I want to make sure we have the strongest and safest financial system possible. By ordering this investigation, we will better understand the circumstances around the collapse and make sure we are properly protecting those who invest their money in the future.

Separately, the FCA had already started an investigation into LC&F’s financial promotions. The Serious Fraud Office, working in conjunction with the FCA, has also opened an investigation into individuals associated with LC&F.

The detailed direction that will order the independent investigation and set out its terms will take into account any issues arising, including from current regulatory and enforcement investigations, and be determined in consultation with the independent person appointed to lead it.

The direction and the investigation’s report will be laid before Parliament.

Dame Heather Hallett appointed as the new Chair of the Security Vetting Appeals Panel.

The Prime Minister has approved the appointment of Dame Heather Hallett as the new Chair of the Security Vetting Appeals Panel, with effect from 1 April 2019 for a period of four years. She will replace Sir George Newman who is retiring from the Panel after 10 years of service.

The Rt Hon Dame Heather Carol Hallett DBE was called to the Bar in 1972. In 1989 she became a QC and was the first woman to chair the Bar Council in 1998. After becoming a Presiding Judge, she was promoted to the Court of Appeal in 2005. Lady Justice Hallett acted as Coroner at the inquest into the deaths of the 52 victims of the 7th July 2005 London bombings, and was appointed by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in 2015 to conduct the “Review into On the Runs”.

Commissioners will be key to ensuring organisation is all set for the future of forestry