FORMER police chief David Strang has been appointed the next chief inspector of prisons for Scotland.
Mr Strang, to be appointed by Royal Warrant following an open competition, will take over as HM Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland on June 16.
Mr Strang was a chief officer for the police in Scotland for 15 years and until April he was chief constable of Lothian and Borders Police, a post he held for six years.
The Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland examines prisoner treatment and conditions in the 16 jail establishments in Scotland, reporting findings to ministers and laying an annual report before the Scottish Parliament.
Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said: "David Strang is ideally placed to take on this post. He has extensive experience of the criminal justice system and what works to reduce reoffending."
Mr Strang, who will succeed Brigadier Hugh Monro in the role, said: "I am delighted to have been appointed as HM Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland. Prisons play a very important part in an effective criminal justice system. I look forward to the challenges which lie ahead and to making a positive contribution to justice in Scotland."
The three-year post has a salary of about £65,000.
Mr Strang was brought up in Glasgow. After obtaining a BSc in engineering science at Durham University, he served in the Metropolitan Police from 1980 to 1998. From 2001 to 2007 he was chief constable of Dumfries and Galloway Constabulary, and he was awarded the Queen's Police Medal in 2002..
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