MP Jamie Reed's Cumbria PCC 'whistleblowers' inquiry rejected

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cumbria-22537813

Version 0 of 1.

A Cumbrian MP has had his call for a ministerial inquiry into an expenses row surrounding the county's police and crime commissioner rejected.

Three people were arrested after it was leaked to a newspaper that Richard Rhodes had twice used a chauffer-driven car, at a cost to the taxpayer of £700.

Mr Rhodes later apologised and repaid the money in full.

Jamie Reed, Labour MP for Copeland, had asked the policing minister to investigate the alleged whistleblowing.

Damian Green said whistleblowers should be fully supported but it would be inappropriate to comment, or investigate separately, while a police investigation was under way.

Mr Reed's letter said: "Two members of staff at the Cumbria Constabulary have been arrested, and a third staff member suspended, following alleged whistleblowing which, it is claimed, resulted in the expenses of the Cumbrian Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Richard Rhodes, being leaked to the public.

"Today, it is widely reported that these arrests followed a complaint from the PCC's own office to the chief constable.

"If true, this is clearly indefensible. Such an act would not only damage the office of the Cumbria PCC beyond repair, but more importantly, damage the reputation of the Cumbria Constabulary.

"As a matter of urgency, I ask that you determine the facts of this case as quickly as possible so that these matters can be resolved beyond doubt."

'Close attention'

Policing Minister Damian Green said in a written response: "Staff in any public service organisation have an important role in drawing attention to any wrong-doing.

"An important distinction must, however, be drawn between those who follow the legitimate and proper procedures for whistleblowing set out in law and those who do not.

"I agree that any person whistleblowing under the correct legal procedures should be entitled to protection.

"Raising concerns by other means, however, will not always be within the law and as such cannot always claim protection."

Jamie Reed said: "I'd hoped for some support from the government.

"That doesn't yet appear to be forthcoming, despite the fact that David Cameron said at the despatch box he'd pay very close attention to this issue."