LONDON—Matt Hancock, a former health secretary, is among three Members of Parliament under investigation by Parliament’s standards watchdog, potentially sparking allegations of corruption within the Conservative party.

Commissioner Daniel Greenberg has launched several inquiries into the matter. Hancock is accused of violating the MPs’ code of conduct by lobbying the commissioner in a way that may have influenced his assessment of a separate breach. The latest version of the code, which includes the new offense, was approved by MPs in December 2022.

“I am surprised by this investigation and strongly deny any wrongdoing,” a spokesperson for Hancock said. “Far from lobbying the commissioner, Matt wrote to Greenberg in good faith to offer some additional evidence that he thought was not only pertinent but helpful for an inquiry the parliamentary commissioner for standards is currently conducting. It’s clearly a misunderstanding, and Matt looks forward to fully engaging with the commissioner to clear this up.”

The letter sent by Hancock reportedly contained evidence that he was uniquely placed to provide. “I believe I have done everything I can to assist the Commissioner with her enquiries,” Hancock wrote in his letter. “I look forward to seeing the outcome of her investigations.”

Currently, only two other investigations are being conducted by the standards commissioner. One of them is looking into whether former health minister Steve Brine broke lobbying rules. The investigation into Brine was triggered when his texts to Hancock and other cabinet ministers were released as part of a leaked cache of messages sent and received by the then-health secretary during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct in public life,” a spokesperson for the parliamentary commissioner for standards said. “We will assess any evidence brought to our attention and take appropriate action.”

READ ALSO

President Biden Unveils Comprehensive Executive Actions To Boost Economic Well-Being of Military And Veteran Spouses

President Joe Biden, accompanied by First Lady Jill Biden, is poised to introduce a package of executive actions aimed at fortifying the economic welfare of military and veteran spouses, caregivers, and survivors. These measures highlight the administration’s steadfast dedication to supporting the military-connected community and acknowledging their crucial role in the recruitment and readiness of…

Trump Facing Prosecution For Obstruction And Espionage Act Violations

Former President Donald Trump is facing prosecution for alleged obstruction of justice and violations of the Espionage Act in relation to national security documents held at his Mar-a-Lago estate. Multiple sources familiar with the matter have disclosed that federal prosecutors have charged Trump, signifying a historic development and carrying significant legal implications for the former…

Kevin McCarthy Weighs In On Trump Indictment

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy  has reacted on Thursday to the news of Trump indictment. “It is unconscionable for a President to indict the leading candidate opposing him. Joe Biden kept classified documents for decades,” McCarthy stated on Twitter. “I, and every American who believes in the rule of law, stand with President Trump against this grave…

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *