The Solicitor General, Robert Buckland QC, paid a visit to HMCPSI offices on 12 September, where he heard first hand from several of the inspectors, including an overview of several recent reports including the new format.

“The principle’s great”, he said “a lot of it is already working well.”

After hearing about the scoping for future inspections he was introduced by Chief Inspector Kevin McGinty to the staff from York and London.

“I am now in my fourth year [as Solicitor General].” He told everyone. “And I take a particular interest in HMCPSI because you have a very important and privileged role.” He went on to congratulate staff for their work.

“The Area reports are sharper and are already yielding fruit in holding the CPS to account. I just want to say how valued you are; how important your work is and how grateful I am. You have my continuing support in all you do.”

Mr Buckland also acknowledged the role of the Chief Inspector. “You get strong advocacy at the highest level from Kevin McGinty”, he said.

Kevin said afterwards that he was grateful the Solicitor General had always taken such an interest in the work of HMCPSI. “He is very aware of the challenges we face and has always been supportive.”