New head of 'Britain's FBI'

A former civil servant at the Ministry of Defence has been appointed chairman of the Serious Organised Crime Agency (Soca), Home Secretary Alan Johnson said today.

Sir Ian Andrews, 55, spent more than 30 years at the Ministry of Defence and was second permanent secretary from 2002 until last October.

He takes over from Sir Stephen Lander, who retires this month.

The agency, which was created in April 2006 and billed as "Britain's FBI", has faced criticism for secrecy and failing to tackle the problem of criminal gangs.

Mr Johnson said: "Sir Ian Andrews has had an impressive career in the Ministry of Defence and brings a wealth of experience to this important post.

"He was an excellent candidate throughout the appointment process and I have no doubt he will be very successful in leading Soca.