Boris ‘warned Raab about conduct’

BORIS Johnson privately warned Dominic Raab about his conduct, it emerged last night.

The ex-prime minister has also given evidence to the ongoing investigation into the alleged bullying of staff by his Cabinet colleague.

He has reportedly been interviewed by Adam Tolley KC, the lawyer looking into complaints made about Mr Raab’s treatment of his staff.

It is not known exactly what Mr Johnson said about the man he appointed, as Foreign Secretary, Justice Secretary and then Deputy Prime Minister. However, a source told The Daily Telegraph he had privately warned Mr Raab about his behaviour. A spokesman for the ex-PM said last night: ‘It would be inappropriate to comment on an ongoing inquiry.’

And a Cabinet Office spokesman said: ‘Adam Tolley KC is conducting an independent investigation into allegations against Dominic Raab. It would not be appropriate to comment further whilst that is ongoing.’

Mr Raab is the subject of eight formal complaints from at least 24 civil servants, covering his time at the Ministry of Justice, Foreign Office and the now-defunct Brexit department.

He has been accused of being rude, nasty and abrasive to junior staff, leaving them in tears and afraid to enter his office.

Although he has insisted he behaved professionally at all times, he conceded last month that he would resign as Justice Secretary if an allegation of bullying is upheld against him.

Jake Berry, Conservative MP and former party chair, said Mr Raab should step aside from Government during the investigation but the minister dismissed this.