Russian role in EU vote ‘should be investigated’

A Us-style investigation involving the security services should examine Russian interference in the EU referendum, Labour has said.

Labour deputy leader Tom Watson has demanded a “Mueller-style investigation”.

Questioning digital minister Margot James, Mr Watson said it was clear Facebook “broke the law and allowed illegal data breaches during the EU referendum”.

The shadow culture secretary said: “Isn’t it now the time, in the public interest and in the national interest, to have a Mueller-style inquiry into the conduct of the EU referendum, that also examines the role played by the Russian state?”

Special counsel Robert Mueller is leading an investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election and possible ties to the Trump campaign.

Ms James responded: “There’s no doubt that the law as it stands has been updated. The Information Commissioner’s Office has much increased powers and will be encouraged to use them.”