London, Dec 22, (PA Media/dpa/GNA) – Britain’s police watchdog is expected to decide before Christmas, whether or not to investigate a complaint regarding London’s Metropolitan Police’s handling of charges that the prime minister’s residence flouted pandemic rules to host a party.
Scotland Yard has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), after concerns were raised about its response to the December 18, 2020, event and its lack of an investigation.
It is understood the IOPC will make a decision before the end of the week.
Green Party peer Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb, initially wrote to the watchdog to make a complaint, with the Met replying to her to confirm it being split into two parts.
Jones had said there is a “case to answer” for the Met “aiding and abetting a criminal offense, or deliberately failing to enforce the law in favor of government politicians and their staff” due to the “extensive” police presence in Downing Street, where the prime minister’s residence and offices are located.
Acting detective chief superintendent Tony O’Sullivan, directorate of professional standards, told Jones this has been referred to the IOPC given “you effectively allege misconduct in public office by MPS police officers”
“The IOPC will now make a determination as to whether the complaint needs to be investigated and, if so, how.”
On the second part, a Met inspector said it relates to Joness’ complaint that Met Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick has “refused to investigate allegations of an unlawful gathering on December 18 2020”.
This has been referred to the Mayor’s Office for Policing And Crime (MOPAC), which sets the direction and budget for the Met.
Both the IOPC and MOPAC have confirmed they are assessing the complaints to decide if further action is required.
It is alleged a Christmas party in Downing Street on December 18 last year, saw officials and advisers make speeches, enjoying a cheese board, drinking together and exchanging Secret Santa gifts, although the prime minister is not thought to have attended.
Boris Johnson’s spokesperson, Allegra Stratton, quit after being filmed joking about it with fellow aides at a mock press conference.
The event is at the heart of an investigation being led by senior civil servant Sue Gray, which is examining lockdown-breaking parties across Whitehall.
GNA