Tories accused of ‘colonising’ state by granting public roles to allies

Campaigners say the appointments system need to be overhauled amid criticism about alleged Conservative cronyism

Britain's system of public appointments needs to be overhauled by an incoming government over alleged Tory cronyism that has seen dozens of former MPs, party supporters and donors given key public roles, campaigners have urged. The public appointments system was reformed in the 1990s, but ministers still retain significant powers during the selection process. Experts say the current system in effect allows a party to colonise" key parts of the state.

It was announced last month that former Tory minister Rob Wilson will be the new chair of the Consumer Council for Water, which represents water and sewerage customers across England and Wales.