Committee publication · Correspondence · 8 July 2026
Correspondence from the Department- CQC Chair Preferred Candidate
Summary
Health Secretary James Murray writes to the Health and Social Care Committee to nominate Baroness Julia Neuberger as the government's preferred candidate for CQC Chair, following Professor Sir Mike Richards' resignation. The letter requests a pre-appointment scrutiny hearing, explains the direct appointment rationale, and outlines Neuberger's extensive healthcare leadership experience and governance track record.
Key findings
- Government proposes direct appointment of Baroness Julia Neuberger as CQC Chair rather than using reserve list from 2025 recruitment campaign, citing absence of suitable candidates meeting specified criteria.
- Baroness Neuberger currently chairs Whittington Health NHS Trust and UCL Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, both roles ending September 2026; brings 30+ years healthcare policy, regulation and board leadership experience including as King's Fund CEO and chair of multiple national reviews.
- Kay Boycott appointed interim CQC Chair from 1 June 2026 following Richards' departure; interim Chief Executive also currently in place with permanent recruitment in final stages.
- Role requires 2–3 days per week commitment, remunerated at £63,000 per annum; interim Chair's appointment term to be extended to accommodate September 2026 hearing.
- Baroness Neuberger has declared interests including current NHS trust chairs, charitable trusteeships, daughter employed as social worker, and King's Fund pension; states willingness to recuse herself from any overlapping regulatory matters.
Tone
ProceduralTopics
health-regulationpublic-appointmentsgovernancehealth-social-care
Key actors
James Murray MP, Baroness Julia Neuberger DBE, Layla Moran MP, Professor Sir Mike Richards, Kay Boycott, Sir William Shawcross CVO, Care Quality Commission
Notable line
“It is essential that a new Chief Executive and Chair are now appointed quickly to ensure CQC has the stability and leadership to drive forward CQC's role in supporting the continued …”
Key Quotes
“I have decided on this occasion and following consultation with the Commissioner for Public Appointments, Sir William Shawcross CVO, to make a direct appointment.”
“In considering potential candidates for the role, we have sought an individual with a deep understanding of health and care services, combined with a strong track record in chairing boards, leading organisations and driving performance improvement.”
Source · parliament.uk record ↗