Chief Inspector of Probation resigns over "perception of conflict"

McDowell’s decision reportedly stems from his wife’s position as a senior manager at Sodexo. The company has won contracts to run probation services in six out of the 21 areas.

In a statement on the HM Inspectorate of Probation website, McDowell said: “It is imperative that any inspectorate is independent and seen to be so. Although we have measures in place to manage any conflicts of interest, and I would always carry out my duties without fear or favour, it is clear that a perception of conflict around my post remains. It is therefore right that I resign.

“It has been a privilege to lead the skilled and professional team at the inspectorate and I am proud of the significant progress we have made in developing our new inspection method. Its specific focus on testing the impact of probation services and promoting effective practice is critical to public protection at a time of great change in the criminal justice system.”

Last week the National Audit Office revealed that it had received a significant number of referrals about potential conflicts of interest at public bodies over the last year.

It urged organisations to recognise the issue, and warned that the health and education sectors as well as local enterprise partnerships as areas of particular potential risk.