The move was backed by the dean of Durham University's law school, Prof Thom Brooks, who said the evidence provided by the Conservative MP Richard Holden in a letter to Durham constabulary appeared to have been proven incorrect.
The chair of the City of Durham Labour party, Sheila Williams, said the allegations were “wasting police time", including referring to a quiz and social event as being in-person when the invitation “explicitly states” members should check a Zoom link.
Police are investigating claims that the Labour leader broke Covid-19 rules at a gathering of staff at Durham Miners' Hall during an election campaign in April last year, where a takeaway was ordered and Starmer was filmed drinking a beer.
Labour has said the food was necessary for staff who were eating while they worked, and has compiled evidence for police that work continued until later that night.
However, at least one witness has told the Guardian they are certain Starmer did not continue working in the hall after finishing the takeaway curry.
The investigation by Durham constabulary will hinge on whether the gathering of campaign aides and staffers from the local MP's office was necessary for work. Starmer has said he will resign if he receives a fine.
Bu hikaye The Guardian dergisinin May 16, 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye The Guardian dergisinin May 16, 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
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