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The government’s preferred candidate for independent chief inspector of borders and immigration, John Tuckett, has revealed that he plans to live in Finland and commute to the UK “whenever needed.”
Tuckett, who has served as immigration services commissioner for the past six years, disclosed his unusual arrangement while being questioned by MPs at the Home Affairs Select Committee on Tuesday. When asked if he lived 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.”
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Pressed on how he would effectively inspect UK borders while residing in another country, Tuckett insisted: “I work in the UK and I would be in the UK. I’m resident in Finland.”
Government Defends Tuckett’s Appointment Amid Scrutiny
Despite concerns over his living arrangements, Tuckett assured MPs that he pays for his own travel and accommodation and would be available in London for five-day workweeks if necessary.
“I have done this kind of work before, and when I was asked this question at my interview, I said I believe time needs to be split. You need time when you’re available for ministers, visits, and face-to-face meetings,” he explained.
The Home Office announced Tuckett as its top choice for the role in January. If confirmed, he would succeed interim inspector David Bolt, who has held the position since June. His predecessor, David Neal, was sacked in February after allegedly breaching the terms of his appointment.
Tuckett further justified his work-from-abroad setup, arguing that the job also requires “time to think, sit back, and write,” estimating that the role should be split 60% fieldwork, 40% analysis and reporting.
Ministers Dismiss Concerns Over Watchdog’s International Commute
Despite the irony of a borders watchdog commuting across borders, ministers have defended Tuckett’s appointment.
Building safety minister Alex Norris told Times Radio that Tuckett’s experience outweighs any concerns about his residency.
“That individual has worked for the government, appointed by the previous government, for the last five years. He’s our preferred candidate for that role. I have to say, provided individuals do their roles and do them well, I don’t really worry about where they come to and from.”
His comments echoed those of Labour minister Seema Malhotra, who last month praised Tuckett’s “track record of delivering complex change programmes” and said his current role made him “ideally suited” for overseeing border security.
However, critics argue that the government’s choice of a non-UK resident to lead border inspections raises serious questions about accountability and practicality. As scrutiny over the appointment continues, Tuckett’s ability to balance remote oversight with hands-on inspections will be closely watched.
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The post Government’s Top Pick for Borders Watchdog Plans To Commute From Finland appeared first on SurgeZirc UK.
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