The role of the Independent Chief Inspector was established by section 48 of the UK Borders Act 2007.
[1] In 2009, the Independent Chief Inspector's remit was extended to include customs functions and contractors.
On 26 April 2009, the Independent Chief Inspector was also appointed to the statutory role of independent Monitor for Entry Clearance Refusals without the Right of Appeal as set out in section 23 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999,[2] as amended by section 4(2) of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.
The Independent Chief Inspector works to ensure scrutiny of the UK's border and immigration functions, providing confidence and assurance as to their effectiveness and efficiency.
[3] The most recent permanent Independent Chief Inspector was David Neal, former Provost Marshal (Army) and Commander of 1 Military Police Brigade.