Margaret Ferrier SNP MP police investigation dropped over technicality

The police investigation into Margaret Ferrier SNP MP over her breaching coronavirus regulations has been dropped due to a technicality.

A Scotland Yard spokesperson said, “On Thursday, 1 October, a Member of Parliament contacted Police Scotland to report she may have breached legislation and guidance relating to Covid-19.

“This related to a train journey on Tuesday, 29th September 2020, between London and Glasgow, following a positive Covid-19 test.

“Following consultation with Police Scotland, officers from the Metropolitan Police, working with British Transport Police, began an investigation into potential offences. The Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards was informed.

“Detectives tested the MP’s account including obtaining and reviewing CCTV and undertaking inquiries to establish the dates of the tests, results, and travel arrangements.

“Officers considered possible offences including those under Reg. 11(2) of the Health Protection Regulations 2020 which relates to self-isolation requirement.

“However, on detailed examination of this new legislation, and following legal advice, it was concluded that this regulation is applicable only after the 28th September 2020. In this case the test occurred prior to the 29th September 2020 and therefore the regulation does not apply.

“As such, there will be no further action in relation to this investigation from the Metropolitan Police. We are in liaison with Police Scotland and have referred the matter to them for consideration.

“We continue to urge everyone to abide by all legislation and any relevant guidelines to help protect themselves and others.”

Ferrier MP travelled from Scotland to London on Monday whilst having Covid symptoms, then made a speech in Parliament was tested positive for the virus and then travelled back to Scotland via public transport.

Ferrier apologised but anger has erupted and she has faced a fury of backlash over social media. Ferrier also called on Dominic Cummins to resign after his outing to Barnard Castle from London during the peak of coronavius.

Ferrier MP travelled from Scotland to London on Tuesday 29 September,  whilst having Covid symptoms, then made a speech in Parliament, and she was tested positive for the virus and then travelled back to Scotland via public transport.

Ian Blackford the Westminster leader of the SNP was “gobsmacked,” and he told Sky News, “I don’t have any powers over her… I can’t force an MP to resign.”