This hearing is taking place as part of the process agreed between select committees and the Government under which the Government's preferred candidate for certain public posts is invited to a pre-appointment hearing held by the relevant departmental select committee.
The post of Pensions Ombudsman and Pension Protection Fund Ombudsman (held by the same individual) falls within the responsibility of the Work and Pensions Committee.
The purpose of the hearing is to assess the candidate’s suitability for the role, including their independence and expertise, and their ability to withstand public and parliamentary scrutiny.