Sir Mike, who was named as the preferred candidate in February, takes over from Ian Dilks.

Sir Julian Hartley, chief executive at the CQC, said: ‘Mike's dedication throughout his long health service career to the delivery of high-quality care make him an ideal person to chair CQC as we work towards being the effective regulator we need to be.

‘We have a journey ahead of us, but we are committed to working collaboratively to ensuring the regulation we carry out meets its core purpose — to keep people safe and ensure they receive the care they deserve. Mike's guidance and oversight will be critical as we work towards this goal.'

Prof Sir Mike said: ‘It is clear CQC is not where it needs to be, and I am fully motivated to play my role, alongside Sir Julian Hartley and others, in making sure CQC becomes the effective regulator the public and providers need and deserve.'

Sir Mike has been appointed for four years.