"It is a very big challenge because, before the accident, there was a very close relationship between the nuclear regulator and the plant operators, " said Judge.

CNN: The woman powering Japan's nuclear hopes post-Fukushima

But Mr Wearne told the BBC the FSA was not too close to the industry and remained an independent regulator.

BBC: 'Traces of pork DNA' found in halal prison meat

"The health regulator Monitor is keeping a close eye at the situation there at King's Mill and we will ensure that everything can be done to sort it out, " said the Prime Minister.

BBC: NHS budget squeeze: PM gives new commitment

Pitt's critics suggest he's too close to the financial industry to be an effective regulator.

CNN: SEC chairman says he won't step down

To ensure patients' safety I want a regulator with the power to close, clean and then re-open wards if necessary.

BBC: NEWS | UK | UK Politics | Alan Johnson's speech in full

The consultation is available on the regulator's website and is due to close on 29 March.

BBC: Guernsey and Jersey post stamp price controls 'should go'

Eliot Spitzer showed that by welcoming mutual fund whistleblowers a state regulator with the political will to take action armed with a small staff lacking industry expertise could have greater impact than a federal regulator with a huge staff that had grown too close to the regulated industry.

FORBES: Why the SEC Is In Danger of Becoming Irrelevant ( February 28, 2006 )

Railtrack's Network Management Statement, published earlier this year, indicated where it wants to spend money, and both the regulator and the new Strategic Rail Authority will be keeping a close eye on the company to make sure it spends its new money wisely.

BBC: Review aims to put investment on track

The U.K. communications regulator, Ofcom, has begun keeping close tabs on developments to evaluate whether News Corp. is a "fit and proper" owner for BSkyB.

WSJ: James Murdoch to Quit as BSkyB Chairman