The Bishop of Croydon has been appointed chair of a new committee set up by the council to tackle inequality and deprivation.

Rt Revd Jonathan Clark will head the Opportunity and Fairness Commission, the establishment of which was a key pledge in Croydon Labour's election manifesto.

Conservative councillors have criticised the commission, will cost £200,000, as a waste of money. 

But Rt Revd Clark, was appointment was announced by Croydon Council leader Tony Newman yesterday, said the panel's work would "make a real difference" to the quality of people's live.

He will be joined by team of commissioners drawn from the public, private and voluntary sectors.

The bishop said: "This is a challenge I will relish, and an opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of the people of Croydon.

"We want to represent the diversity of the borough and as chairman my role is to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and everyone’s contribution is recognised."

Councillor Newman, said: "The commission will be taking action to target those areas in the borough that suffer inequalities and deprivation.

"We are committed to improving the quality of life for Croydon residents and ensuring fairness and equality for everyone."

The council's cabinet approved a the commission's proposed establishment in July, when then Conservative opposition leader Councillor Mike Fisher claimed it full be "full of Labour cronies".

Is the Opportunity and Fairness Commission money well-spent? Post a comment below or email letters@croydonguardian.co.uk