Met let Ferrier off the hook
DISGRACED MP Margaret Ferrier faces no further action from the Metropolitan Police after beating a Covid rule deadline by just one day.
In a statement, the Met said the SNP politician’s journey from London to Glasgow while she was infected with coronavirus did not break the law as she tested positive before a regulation that could have resulted in a £10,000 fine came into force.
However, political opponents last night said she should quit Westminster anyway.
Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross said: “Her reckless actions undermined the vital public health message and many people will be left feeling it’s one rule for politicians and another for everyone else.
“The public needs to know that what she did was wrong and cannot be allowed to stand. The SNP must send that clear message by expelling her from the party.”
Lib Dem health spokesman Alex Cole-Hamilton added: “Margaret Ferrier may have side-stepped the new regulations by one day but it’s clear to people across the nation that she broke the rules and acted in a selfish and dangerous manner.
“She should have had the good grace to resign. Instead, we must rely on the recall process.”
Ferrier still faces suspension from the UK Parliament by the Commons Standards Committee and Police Scotland is looking into a potential breach north of the Border.
Scotland Yard said Ferrier reported herself over her September 29 train journey between London and Glasgow following a positive Covid-19 test.
The Met stated: “However, on detailed examination of this new legislation, and following legal advice, it was concluded this regulation is applicable only after September 28, 2020. In this case, the test occurred prior to September 29 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 have referred the matter to Police Scotland for consideration.”
Police Scotland said: “We will assess the circumstances and consult with the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service before taking a decision on next steps.”