Javad Marandi: Govt must launch independent inquiry

EMBARGO: IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Liberal Democrats are calling for the Government to launch an independent inquiry into the donations from Javad Marandi to the Conservative party after he loses the right to anonymity. 

The National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation found some of Mr Marandi's overseas interests had played a key role in an elaborate money-laundering scheme involving one of Azerbaijan's richest oligarchs.

Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper said: 

“It’s clear that the Conservative Party have simply given up on standards, and they have no shame about where their money comes from.

“If Rishi Sunak was serious about restoring integrity, he would order an independent inquiry to get to the bottom of these donations. 

“The Prime Minister must commit to returning any donations which have clearly originated from money involved in Javad Morandi’s money laundering schemes.”

ENDS