The Government's choice for the next Chief Inspector of Constabulary has provoked an angry reaction from rank-and-file officers.

Lawyer Tom Winsor, whose review of police pay and conditions sparked a mass protest, was named as Home Secretary Theresa May's preferred candidate for the £200,000-a-year role.

Criticism of the choice has focused on Mr Winsor's lack of policing experience, with a think-tank describing it as "risky if not reckless". Mr Winsor's two reports were part of the most wide-ranging review of policing in more than 30 years.

The 54-year-old would be the first civilian to take up the role since the inspectorate was first established in 1856. But first he is likely to face tough questions from members of the Commons Home Affairs Select Committee next week before his appointment can be sent to Prime Minister David Cameron and the Queen for approval.

Committee chairman Keith Vaz said he was "looking forward" to hearing from Mr Winsor, with whom he has clashed during previous hearings.

The Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, said that "if ever there was a need for sagacious advice from someone with a profound understanding of policing it is now".

Paul McKeever, the federation's chairman, said: "We warned the Home Secretary there would be riots, crime would rise and that 20% cuts would have a detrimental effect on the policing front line, putting public safety at risk, and we were called scaremongers. We look forward to hearing from the Home Secretary how the appointment of Tom Winsor provides the profound understanding of policing that is so important for public safety."

The Police Federation's inspecting ranks central committee said the decision "simply beggars belief".

Home Office minister Lynne Featherstone said Mrs May was "probably" right in recommending Mr Winsor for the role, but added he still had hurdles to overcome before his appointment.

"If Theresa May has Tom Winsor as her preferred candidate then she probably has very good reason to have him in that way," she said. "The fact that he is not from a police background is innovative and it may be brilliant."