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National Crime Agency Advances Investigation into PPE Medpro

The National Crime Agency (NCA) has stated that it remains undeterred by the legal representatives of PPE Medpro, a company led by Doug Barrowman, husband of Conservative peer Michelle Mone. The agency is actively continuing its investigation into the firm, which is suspected of engaging in criminal activities while securing £203 million worth of government contracts for personal protective equipment during the Covid-19 pandemic.

PPE Medpro secured these contracts through the government’s “VIP lane,” a mechanism designed to prioritize companies with political ties. The NCA has clarified that they have not yet submitted a complete file to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) regarding any formal charges, although they suggested that discussions are currently occurring.

During a press briefing addressing the investigation’s duration, NCA’s Director General of Operations, Rob Jones, stated, “There are always ongoing discussions with the CPS regarding complex cases like this, but we have not yet submitted a full file.” Responding to inquiries about the agency’s stance toward PPE Medpro’s legal team, Jones asserted, “We’re not intimidated by the lawyers of influential figures. If we’re not afraid of drug lords’ attorneys in Colombia, we certainly aren’t fazed by these.”

Jones emphasized the NCA’s commitment to making expeditious progress on the investigation, stating, “We are dedicated and have allocated significant resources to this case. It’s intricate, and proper investigation takes time.” He noted that the investigation has operated under a court order which restrains assets owned by Mone and Barrowman, estimated at around £75 million.

Despite the investigation spanning over three years, Jones advised against inferring anything negative based on its length, comparing it to other complex investigations that have taken even longer to resolve. When questioned about staff allocation on the case, he confirmed, “There are definitely more than five individuals assigned,” indicating that it remains a priority for the agency, and they aim to conclude it as swiftly as possible.

Michelle Mone previously confessed to misleading the media by denying her involvement with PPE Medpro, though both she and Barrowman have firmly rejected any allegations of criminal behavior. Their legal representative has opted not to provide further comments at this time.

Source
www.theguardian.com