Charging decision in Conservative Party Honours allegation
08/10/2007
The Crown Prosecution Service has today advised the Metropolitan Police Service that there is insufficient evidence to charge any individuals after an investigation into allegations under the Honours (Prevention of Abuses) Act 1925 in relation to the Conservative Party.
Following the decision by the Metropolitan Police to commence an investigation into allegations of so-called 'Cash for Honours' a further complaint was made regarding nominations, by the Conservative Party, of individuals for working peerages. This investigation culminated in a separate file from the police to CPS.
The file of evidence centred on two separate matters. These were the nomination of a donor as a working peer and an approach made to the Conservative Party by a party donor.
In relation to both of these matters the CPS has decided that there is insufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction of any individuals for any offence under the Honours (Prevention of Abuses) Act 1925 or for any other offence.
In coming to these decisions the CPS consulted independent Counsel.
Notes to Editors
- A file of evidence into these allegations was received by the CPS on 30 July 2007
- Media enquiries to CPS Press Office on 020 7796 8127.
- CPS website can be found at www.cps.gov.uk
