House of Commons Communities and Local Government Committee 11th Report 2008-09: Appointment of the Deputy Chairs of the Infrastructure Planning Commission (Published 03.08.2009)
The Committee conducted pre-appointment hearings of the Government’s preferred candidates for the roles of Deputy Chairmen of the new Infrastructure Planning Commission, Robert Upton CBE and Dr Pauleen Lane CBE. The hearings were conducted to address concerns over a deficit in the democratic accountability of these posts when decisions on Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects are made. The Committee decided, on the basis of evidence submitted by the candidates, that they were suitable for the posts. The CLG Committee’s decision is non-binding, and the relevant Minister will have the final say on appointments. Both candidates have significant experience in local government, with Mr Upton offering particular expertise in mass transit projects, and Dr Lane in highways.