Chief constable is chosen to head new crime agency

Mrs May said Mr Bristow will “develop an agency of powerful operational crime fighters who will ensure those who commit serious and organised crime are tracked down, pursued and brought to justice”.

The new National Crime Agency is expected to start its work in 2013.

Mrs May said: “I am delighted to announce Keith Bristow as the new head of the National Crime Agency.

“For too long we have lacked a strong, collaborative national response in the fight for criminal justice. The NCA will make the UK a more hostile environment for serious and organised crime and strengthen our border.

“In his new role, Keith Bristow will develop an agency of powerful operational crime fighters who will ensure those who commit serious and organised crime are tracked down, pursued and brought to justice.

“Keith Bristow will be the NCA’s first operational head and will play a vital role in developing the new agency.”

Mr Bristow said: “The NCA will protect communities and individuals from harm by tackling serious, organised and complex crime.

“In partnership with other law enforcement agencies, we will ensure that criminals are identified, pursued and brought to justice, their groups dismantled and their activities disrupted. We will do even more to strip away their illegally obtained assets.”