Speaker Lindsay Hoyle tells MPs he tipped off police about Mandelson flight risk
Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, confirmed he had passed the information to the Metropolitan Police “in good faith” following reports that someone had advised police that Lord Peter Mandelson might be a flight risk, which could lead to his arrest.
The Times reported that the speaker, who visited the British Virgin Islands last week, was told by a local source that the former US ambassador was planning to flee to the British overseas territory.
In a statement to the House of Commons in response to the reports, Sir Lindsay said: “Members will be aware of the comments made in the media about Lord Mandelson’s arrest.
“To avoid any false speculation, I would like to confirm that, after receiving information, I considered this to be relevant and, in accordance with my duty and responsibility, I have forwarded this to the Metropolitan Police in good faith.
“It is regrettable that this has quickly died down in the media. Members will understand as this is a live investigation… it would be inappropriate to comment further and I would caution members not to do so.”
It comes after Lord Mandelson’s lawyers claimed his arrest for abuse of public office stemmed from “unfounded” allegations that he planned to leave the country.
The former cabinet minister was arrested on Monday and later released on bail.
Lord Mandelson is said to have told friends that he had agreed with the police for a voluntary interview but was later arrested because the police suspected he might escape.
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