MPs have expressed concerns over the appointment of John Tuckett as the UK’s new borders watchdog, citing a “reputational risk” due to his residence in Finland. While the Government insists that he meets the criteria for the role, the Home Affairs Select Committee has pressed for him to spend the majority of his time working in the UK.
Concerns over residency and work arrangements
During a pre-appointment hearing, Mr Tuckett, who currently serves as the immigration services commissioner, revealed that he has a family home in Finland and travels to the UK for work when necessary. When asked if he resides within commuting distance of the London office, he responded:
“No, I don’t. I have a family home in Finland and I come across to this country whenever I need to.”
Despite living abroad, he reassured MPs that he personally covers the costs of his travel and accommodation. However, members of the committee remain concerned about his ability to fulfil the role effectively without being based in the UK.
In their report published on Monday, MPs acknowledged Mr Tuckett’s “significant experience” in senior leadership roles within the public sector, stating that he meets the necessary qualifications for the Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration (ICIBI). However, they stressed that the role requires a substantial presence in London and regular inspections across the country.
“If appointed, it will be for Mr Tuckett to decide on his precise working patterns, but we would expect the majority of his working time to be spent in London or on inspections,” the committee stated.
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Government’s response and role expectations
Following the hearing, the Government clarified that Mr Tuckett would be required to work full-time in the UK, with a salary of £140,000 per year. A Home Office spokesperson defended the appointment, highlighting Mr Tuckett’s extensive experience and ability to provide independent oversight.
“The Prime Minister has been clear that the job is full-time in the UK. Mr Tuckett has agreed he will spend whatever time in the UK is needed to meet the requirements of the role.”
However, concerns extend beyond his residency. The committee emphasised the need for the ICIBI to maintain independence from the Home Office. The previous chief inspector, David Neal, was dismissed in February 2023 after reportedly breaching the terms of his appointment.
Mr Neal later criticised the Home Office for delaying the publication of his reports and claimed that there were “very few” channels for expressing concerns about security. The committee’s report noted that, between 2023 and 2024, only three out of 21 inspection reports were presented to Parliament within the eight-week timeframe promised by ministers.
MPs demand stronger oversight and transparency
Dame Karen Bradley, chairwoman of the Home Affairs Select Committee, urged Mr Tuckett to ensure he remains independent and does not become a “rubber stamp” for the Home Office’s decisions.
“The ICIBI cannot simply be a rubber stamp for the Home Office’s immigration and borders functions. We would urge Mr Tuckett to ensure he remains strongly independent of the Home Office and fully prepared to challenge their work.
Equally, the Home Office has to be prepared to accept the public scrutiny and assurance that the role is intended to provide.”
The appointment of Mr Tuckett comes at a time when the Government is under increasing pressure to strengthen border security and improve transparency in immigration policy. With the growing backlog of inspections and reports, MPs stress that the new borders watchdog must be fully committed to the job’s demands and operate with complete independence from ministerial influence.
As the process moves forward, Mr Tuckett’s ability to manage his responsibilities while addressing concerns over his residency and work arrangements will remain under scrutiny.
