The Committee hald a pre-appointment hearing with Mr Jonson Cox, the Government's candidate for the post of chair of Ofwat. It is satisfied that Mr Cox has the professional competence and personal independence required for the post, and encourages the Secretary of State to make the appointment.

The Committee held a pre-appointment hearing with the Government's preferred candidate for the post of chair of the Committee on Climate Change, Lord Deben (the former MP and Government minister, John Gummer). It concludes that he is a suitable candidate and recommends that he be appointed to the position

On 31 October 2011 the Committee held a pre-appointment hearing with the Government's nominee for the post of Chair of the Homes and Communities Agency Regulation Committee, Julian Ashby. On the basis of the evidence provided at that hearing, the Committee concluded that he is a suitable candidate for the post. One matter concerning the need for arrangements to avoid a potential perception of conflicts of interest was brought to the Secretary of State's attention.

Pre-appointment hearing with the Government's preferred candidate for Chair of the Technology Strategy Board : Tenth report of session 2010-12, Vol. 2: Oral and written Evidence