Member

This Government are firmly committed to robust accountability and oversight for those in public office serving the public. It is only right that offences of this nature are investigated thoroughly to protect the integrity of those working in Parliament and Whitehall. However, decisions about whether to investigate potential criminal activity are a matter for law enforcement, which is operationally independent of government. It is only right that we respect this operational independence. It would not be appropriate to mandate how any law enforcement agency, including the National Crime Agency, deploys its resources when to do so could undermine its independence. Given those reassurances, I hope the noble Baroness will feel able to withdraw her amendment and that other noble Lords will not press theirs.