The influential public administration select committee (PASC) has approved the appointment of the new chair of the Charity Commission, William Shawcross, despite concerns over his independence expressed by some MPs.

Mr Shawcross' appointment was confirmed by Cabinet Office minister, Francis Maude, on 7 September and the renowned writer and broadcaster will now replace John Wood, who has been acting as the organisation's interim chair. Mr Shawcross said it was a ‘privilege' to assume the new role.