Durham Police revisit lockdown allegations as Labour leader maintains confidence in his actions
Sir Keir Starmer is to be investigated by Durham Police over alleged breaches of Covid-19 lockdown rules, following the receipt of “significant new information.” Despite previously stating that no offence had been committed, the investigation represents a U-turn amid mounting scrutiny and pressure.
The allegations centre on an incident in April 2021 when Starmer was reportedly seen drinking a beer with up to 30 colleagues at a constituency office in Durham during campaigning for the Hartlepool by-election. Starmer has strongly denied any wrongdoing, asserting on Friday: “I’m confident no rules were broken.”
Durham Constabulary initially concluded earlier this year that no breach had occurred, but the investigation has now been reopened post-election. The Labour Party has remained firm in its response, saying they are “happy to answer any questions” while maintaining that no lockdown rules were violated.
The timing of the investigation follows the conclusion of local elections where Labour celebrated several key wins, including taking control of three councils in London. Conservative MP Richard Holden praised the police investigation, arguing that Starmer must be held “to the same standard” as the Prime Minister and other politicians.
In the wake of similar scandals — with Boris Johnson, his wife Carrie, and Chancellor Rishi Sunak among those fined for breaking Covid laws — Starmer’s investigation adds further complexity to the political landscape. Labour’s focus has been on addressing the cost-of-living crisis while resisting Conservative accusations, but “Beergate” has continued to dominate headlines.
Sir Keir had previously defended his team’s actions, explaining that, at the time of the alleged incident, dining options were limited. “No restaurants or pubs were open at the time, and if you didn’t get a takeaway, then our team wasn’t eating that evening,” he said.
The investigation signals a challenging period for the Labour leader, as scrutiny from both police and political opponents creates fresh hurdles ahead of the next general election.
