At the time of giving evidence, Sir Hugh was President of the Association of Chief Police Officers, representing the 44 police forces of England, Wales and Northern Ireland. He retired from the role in 2015. Previously, he had served with Metropolitan Police Service, including taking part in the inquiry into the murder of Stephen Lawrence. From 2002 to 2009, Sir Hugh was Chief Constable of the Police Service in Northern Ireland. His testimony included the reflection that he had found the Press Complaints Commission "powerless" in its handling of intrusions into his own private life by the press.
