'Cash For Access' Scandal To Be Investigated By Scotland Yard

Police Open Tory 'Cash For Access' Investigation

Scotland Yard are to open their investigation into the 'cash for access' scandal that saw Conservative Party officials offer meetings with senior politicians, including prime minister David Cameron, for cash donations.

According to the Independent, the police probe will investigate the scandal, which saw party co-treasurer Peter Cruddas resign for claiming he could ensure meetings with top level party members for donations of nearly £250,000.

The Electoral Commission confirmed that the party is being investigated over the affair, exposed when Cruddas was caught on camera telling undercover reporters from the Sunday Times that he could get potential donors "premier league" meetings with ministers, including David Cameron.

At the time, Cameron dismissed the accusations, claiming Cruddas nor donors had that form of access or influence.

Cruddas, who resigned from his position over the scandal, then corroborated Cameron's claim, saying he acted without the knowledge of the Tory leadership.

Michael Dugher, shadow minister for the Cabinet Office, praised the investigation, saying that: "Allegations that David Cameron's chief fundraiser was attempting to solicit illegal donations and selling access to the Prime Minister called into question the whole integrity of the Government. So it is right that the Metropolitan Police are taking them seriously.

The investigation comes as key figures in the coalition government appear before the Leveson Inquiry next week.

David Cameron, his deputy Nick Clegg and Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne will appear, alongside Labour leader Ed Miliband, Harriet Harman and former prime minister Gordon Brown.

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