Labour leader pledges to act on findings of independent inquiry into anti-corruption minister, while Tory figures call for her resignation over serious allegations

Keir Starmer’s Labour government is under growing scrutiny after his anti-corruption minister, Tulip Siddiq, became the subject of an independent investigation into allegations linking her to corruption in Bangladesh. The investigation, led by the independent adviser on ministerial standards, Sir Laurie Magnus, will focus on properties associated with Siddiq’s family and her aunt’s political ties in Bangladesh. Despite the serious nature of the accusations, Starmer has pledged to act on the findings, regardless of the outcome.

The allegations came to light following comments by Bangladesh’s newly appointed leader, Muhammad Yunus, who called for Siddiq to apologise over her family’s links to properties allegedly obtained through illicit means. The controversy has escalated, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accusing Starmer of hypocrisy for appointing Siddiq, his “personal friend,” to tackle corruption while she faces such accusations.

Siddiq, who serves as the economic secretary to the Treasury and is responsible for policy on the City and anti-corruption measures, referred herself for investigation after the claims were made. She has consistently denied any wrongdoing and insists that she has acted appropriately. Prime Minister Starmer has expressed confidence in Siddiq, stating that she has acted “entirely properly.”

However, the situation remains tense, with senior figures within Labour, such as Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride, calling for Siddiq to step down. Stride argued that Siddiq’s position as anti-corruption minister is untenable given the serious accusations against her, and it is “impossible” for her to continue in her role under the current circumstances. He also noted that her absence from an official trip to China could be linked to the ongoing investigation.

Science Secretary Peter Kyle defended Siddiq, emphasizing that the independent investigation must be allowed to proceed without interference. He rejected calls for her immediate resignation, arguing that it was essential for the authorities to handle the matter with due process.

Despite these defences, the opposition continues to press for action, with the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives accusing the government of failing to take decisive steps. As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on whether Starmer will stand by his minister or be forced to act if the findings raise further questions about her conduct.

FINANCIAL TIMES

Labour MP Tulip Siddiq is facing mounting pressure to resign following controversial remarks made by the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Critics accuse Siddiq, who has strong ties to the Bangladeshi government, of failing to condemn the leader’s comments, which have been widely perceived as inflammatory and at odds with UK foreign policy. Opposition figures and members of her own party are calling for her resignation, arguing that her failure to address the remarks undermines the UK’s diplomatic stance and compromises her position as a public servant. The issue has sparked a heated debate over the responsibilities of MPs with dual heritage and their influence on international relations.

SKY NEWS

Labour MP Tulip Siddiq is facing intense scrutiny over her political connections to her aunt, former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, following new revelations. Despite claims from Siddiq that she and Hasina never discussed politics, a blog written by Siddiq in 2008-09 exposes her close involvement with Hasina’s Awami League. In her blog, Siddiq described campaigning for the party during Bangladesh’s general election and celebrating Hasina’s victory. She also shared photographs of herself with the prime minister, highlighting their political collaboration. The blog’s content contradicts Siddiq’s previous statements about their relationship.

Adding to the controversy, recent reports have revealed that Siddiq’s Labour Party flyers were found in Hasina’s palace in Dhaka after the former leader’s ouster last year. These disclosures have prompted calls for Siddiq’s resignation, with many Labour MPs now questioning her credibility and future within the party. Siddiq’s ties to the deposed leader are now seen as a potential liability, especially as Labour seeks to distance itself from the fallout of foreign political involvement. The situation has placed Siddiq’s ministerial career under serious threat, with some believing her position is increasingly untenable.