Cooper hits out on Mitchell
Labour has used a Commons debate to put further pressure on the Conservatives to investigate the behaviour of Chief Whip Andrew Mitchell.
Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper today called on the Home Secretary to condemn Mr Mitchell's alleged outburst at Downing Street police officers.
She said: "The Home Secretary told the Police Federation last year: 'You put up with abuse and worse and you do so to keep us free. You do an amazing job, and it’s time we gave you all the respect you deserve.’
"I agree with her. So will she join with me in the House and condemn the Chief Whip for swearing at police officers?"
Ms Cooper added: "The reason it matters that there’s been no investigation, he hasn’t come clean, is because people think this goes to heart of the Government’s attitude to the police and public servants."
Meanwhile, Cabinet ministers have said police should stop making criticisms of Mr Mitchell.
It is reported that Chris Grayling has said it had been a mistake for the Police Federation to have become involved in the incident. Philip Hammond and Grant Shapps have also expressed similar views.