Serjeant-at-Arms expresses regret at her role in events leading to Damian Green's arrest

The Serjeant-at-Arms, Jill Pay, has today apologised for her role in the the events leading to the arrest of Conservative MP Damian Green last year. She appeared before the Commons committee investigating the circumstances of the search, to give her version of events.

PolitcsHome reports:

"I am very sorry that my actions have caused anxiety and distress among members," she said. "I deeply regret that error of judgement". Ms Pay said she felt under "considerable pressure" from police investigating Mr Green, and that they had "convinced" her that a warrant would not be needed.

She claimed officers told her that given the nature of the charges against Mr Green, he could face a possible sentence of 20 to 25 years, leading her to believe she "would be obstructing a criminal investigation" if she did not consent to the search.

More here.

Jonathan Isaby