Covid travel MP might still face prosecution
SNP MP Margaret Ferrier will face no further action from the Metropolitan Police after she travelled bet ween London and Glasgow following a positive Covid-19 test.
The force said that regulations under which the MP could have been punished were not in effect when she travelled. It has referred the matter to Police Scotland.
In a statement, Police Scotland said: “We will now assess the circumstances and consult with the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Ser vice before taking a decision on next steps."
SNP MP Margaret Ferrier will face no further action from the Metropolitan Police for traveling between London and Glasgow following a positive Covid-19 test.
The Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP had the SNP whip removed after it emerged she made the trip from Glasgow to the House of Commons while waiting for result sofa test she took on 26 September and made the return journey after being informed she had the virus. Amid mounting pressure for her to resign her seat, Ms Ferrier has held on and the Metropolitan Police has now said in a statement that regulations under which Ms Ferrier could have been punished were not in effect when she travelled.
In a statement on their investigation into Ms Ferrier, the Metropolitan Police said detectives investigated her account of taking a train
b et ween London and Glasgow, having tested positive for coronavirus.
The force said :" De tectives 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 29 th September 2020 and therefore the regulation does not apply."
The force said it is taking no further action, but has referred the matter to Police Scotland for consideration.
But in a statement posted on Twitter, Police Scotland has not ruled out pursuing action against Ms Ferrier.
A statement said: “We are aware of the decision by @ metpoliceuk.
“We will now assess the circumstances and consult with the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service before taking a decision on next steps."
First Minister Ni cola Sturgeon has said she does not have the power to exp el Ms Ferri er from the party and that due process must be followed before such a step is undertaken.