Who are the members of the Inquiry Panel?
Sir Peter Gibson (Chair), Dame Janet Paraskeva and Mr Peter Riddell. See biographies.
Who picked the Panel members?
The Prime Minister invited the Panel members to lead the Inquiry, following discussion with members of the Cabinet. The Panel members were then formally appointed by the Cabinet Secretary.
Why were they chosen?
Sir Peter is a former judge, suitably qualified and experienced to lead this independent Inquiry. He and the other Panel members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Inquiry. Further information about the Panel members can be found here.
Who is the Detainee Inquiry Secretary?
Who is Counsel to the Inquiry?
Philippa Whipple, QC is lead Counsel; Nicholas Moss is Junior Counsel to the Inquiry.
Who staffs the Detainee Inquiry Secretariat?
The Inquiry is staffed by a number of civil servants from across Whitehall, all employed by, or seconded to, the Cabinet Office and all independent for the purposes of the Inquiry.
Have any members of the Secretariat previously worked in the Security and Intelligence Agencies?
No.
How can the Inquiry claim to be independent when the Prime Minister has chosen the Panel and it is supported by civil servants?
The Panel, Counsel and the Secretariat are all independent from the Government, including its Security and Intelligence Agencies.
Are the staff of the Inquiry suitably representative?
Members of the Inquiry team have been appointed on merit. If specific issues arise requiring certain expertise, the Inquiry will seek that expertise.
What experts does the Inquiry have to assist it?
The Panel has already consulted a number of academics, legal practitioners, former heads of Inquiries and non-governmental organisations with a background or interest in the issues covered in the Inquiry’s terms of reference. It will continue to seek expert advice as necessary throughout the Inquiry.