Ex-SFO director takes key insolvency role

This appointment will see Dame Barbara, who already investigates complaints about the Inland Revenue, Customs & Excise and the Public Guardianship Office, examine complaints made against the Insolvency Service.

She will act as an 'impartial referee' when organisations are not happy with the manner in which the Insolvency Service has handled their complaints.

However, she will not handle complaints made against a registered insolvency practitioner or any official receiver when acting as trustee or liquidator, or in matters which must be settled by a court of law.

Dame Barbara is a barrister and has also served as a part-time judge.