A former deputy chairman of the Advertising StandardS Authiority has been appointed as a new member of the Press Complaints Commission.

Neil Watts joins the press watchdog in place of the former MP and MSP John Home Robertson, who is retiring.

PCC chairman Lord Hunt said:  “We are extremely pleased to welcome Neil Watts onto the Commission. He joins at an interesting time, as we all work hard to bring about the regeneration and renewal of the PCC.

“It is vital that the Commission has strong and varied public representation, and I am sure Neil’s experience and expertise, including serving on a similar self-regulatory body, will make him a significant addition to the Board.”

Neil Watts added:  “I am delighted to become a public member of the Press Complaints Commission. This is clearly an important time for the PCC and self-regulation of the press.

“Under a new chair, it has the chance to reinvigorate itself, and do ever more to maintain standards in the press. I am excited about the challenge, and want to build on the past successes of the PCC, as well as help to guide its onward improvement.”