Carlisle MP John Stevenson has criticised Cumbria CC for only advertising its chief executive post internally.

The Conservative MP said he understood the post is only going to be open to internal candidates.

‘I have no doubt that there are some very good candidates from within Cumbria CC,' said Mr Stevenson.

‘However, having a policy whereby you only look internally for a chief executive is in my opinion wrong.

‘This is an extremely important job,' he added. ‘Therefore, it is absolutely vital that the council seeks to employ the best candidate. Advertising the post externally would ensure that the very best applicants have the opportunity to apply for this significant role.'

A spokesman for Cumbria CC said: ‘The council's chief officers panel decided to initially opt for an internal recruitment process for the permanent position of chief executive as this will save the costs of appointing recruitment consultants and advertising.