Government child safety adviser Sir Roger Singleton resigns

Singleton was appointed as chief adviser in March last year and produced his first report in March this year, which called for the ban on physical punishment to be extended to all people working with children and young people.

But following the disbanding of the National Safeguarding Delivery Unit, announced last week, Singleton, who was tasked with overseeing its work, has decided to step down.

The government has confirmed that there are no plans to appoint a new chief adviser.

A spokesman for the Department for Education said: "In light of the announcement of Professor Munro's review, the Secretary of State and Sir Roger Singleton have agreed that Sir Roger should stand down as chief adviser on the safety of children.

"This advisory role was created in particular response to Lord Laming's recommendations last year and the circumstances have now changed.

"There are no plans to appoint a new chief adviser as the role is no longer appropriate. Professor Munro has identified a small group of experts to act as a reference group to support the review. The reference group membership will be announced in due course."