Statement from IOPC senior non-executive Director Julia Mulligan

“The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) Unitary Board appointed Tom Whiting as interim Director General at a special meeting on Sunday 4 December.

"Michael Lockwood resigned from the post on Friday 2 December with immediate effect. The Home Secretary has confirmed Mr Lockwood is the subject of a police investigation into an historic allegation.

“In line with the Police Reform Act 2002, Mr Whiting’s appointment has been ratified by the Home Secretary to whom the Director General is directly accountable. Mr Whiting has been the deputy Director General of the IOPC since February 2019.

“It is vital the IOPC continues to fulfil its statutory duties and we are confident that Mr Whiting can provide the necessary leadership and reassurance to our staff and stakeholders at this challenging time, until a permanent director general is appointed.”