THE Government has given former Labour Wyre Forest MP David Lock, who suffered a devastating election defeat last year, a top crime-busting role.

The former minister, who lost by 17,630 votes to Independent Dr Richard Taylor, has been appointed new service authorities chairman for the National Criminal Intelligence Service and the National Crime Squad.

He will be charged with maintaining the two organisations dealing with national and international crime and making sure they are "efficient" and "effective".

Home Secretary David Blunkett appointed Mr Lock citing his strong legal background.

The barrister and legal consultant, 41, will take up his post in April.

Mr Lock, who was an MP for one term, said: "I'm very pleased to accept this appointment which represents a great challenge.

"NCIS and the National Crime squad play an extremely important role in the UK's response to serious and organised crime.

"I look forward to contributing to this invaluable work."

Mr Lock, who was minister in the Lord Chancellor's Department, lost his seat after supporting the Government's stance in favour of the downgrading of Kidderminster Hospital.

A Home Office spokesman said Mr Lock would be paid an "allowance" - yet to be determined - based on a minimum of two days a week.