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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Politics
Dan Bloom & Lizzy Buchan

Complaints against Dominic Raab more than DOUBLE to eight in bullying investigation

An investigation is looking into EIGHT complaints about the conduct of Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab.

Lawyer Adam Tolley KC had already been tasked by Rishi Sunak looking at three incidents during Mr Raab’s stints as Justice Secretary, Foreign Secretary and Brexit Secretary.

No10 confirmed today that a further five formal complaints are now being considered relating to Mr Raab's time at the Ministry of Justice (MOJ).

The PM's official spokesman said: "I can confirm that the PM has now asked the investigator to include five further formal complaints relating to conduct at the Ministry of Justice as part of the ongoing investigation and in line with existing terms."

Asked how Mr Raab can remain in post, the spokesman said: "We think it's right that there's an independent process and that the investigator looks into these claims thoroughly before coming to a view."

But Labour said the top Tory should be suspended while the allegations are probed.

A spokesman for Keir Starmer said: "It's pretty shocking that no action has been taken against the Justice Secretary given the allegations that there have been.

Rishi Sunak has stood by Dominic Raab (left) so far amid complaints about his conduct (AFP via Getty Images)

"Unfortunately, I think this is yet again the consequence of having a weak Prime Minister who has shown repeatedly on these issues a lack of willingness to act."

The spokesman added: "The idea that Dominic Raab can continue in post with no consequence whilst there are these allegations around, I think most people would find pretty surprising."

Mr Sunak initially stood by the under-fire Justice Secretary but eventually bowed to pressure to allow a formal probe.

But Mr Tolley can only extend his investigation to more complaints if he is allowed by the Prime Minister.

Labour has said that Mr Tolley should be given the power to “proactively” investigate Mr Raab’s behaviour - without the permission of the PM.

Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner said: “It is yet another sign of how weak Rishi Sunak is as a Prime Minister that despite being aware of Dominic Raab’s reputation, he appointed him as his Deputy.

"The Prime Minister must now say why he has not been suspended until the outcome of the formal investigation, and make clear that any breach of the Ministerial Code will result in his immediate sacking. The Government must also take immediate steps to ensure there is a safe working environment for their staff."

Lib Dem Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper added: “Rishi Sunak must ask Raab to step down as Justice Secretary while these complaints are investigated, and confirm he won't be reappointed if they are upheld.

"Anything less would make a mockery of Sunak's claim that he would govern with integrity. It can't be one rule for Conservative ministers and another for everyone else."

Mr Raab has previously defended himself against allegations of bullying - and separate revelations he used his personal email for government business.

"I've behaved professionally at all times… I look forward to dealing with it fully and transparently rather than dealing with anonymous comments in the media," he told the BBC.

The Prime Minister reappointed Mr Raab as Justice Secretary in October. He held the role under Boris Johnson but was sacked by Liz Truss in September.

He also held jobs in the department between 2015-2016 and 2017-2018.

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