Balls overrules MPs' objections to Atkinson commissioner appointment

In a report published today, the Children, Schools and Families Select Committee said it was "unable to endorse" Atkinson's appointment. It said that while MPs were satisfied that Atkinson demonstrated a "high degree of professional competenece" they were disappointed by her lack of "determination to assert the independence of the role, to challenge the status quo on children's behalf, and to stretch the remit of the post, in particular by championing children's rights."

In a letter to Barry Sheerman, chair of the committee, Balls said the report did not put forward "new relevant facts" and he would go ahead with Atkinson's appointment. He said Atkinson had asserted she was "fearlessly independent" and would "be vociferous" in putting forward the views of vulnerable children and young people. He wrote: "Maggie Atkinson is one of the most outstanding directors of children's services in the country."