EPA
A Labour minister has been named in an investigation into claims her family embezzled up to £3.9bn (Tk 590 billion) from infrastructure projects in Bangladesh.
Tulip Siddiq, 42, who as the Treasury’s Economic Secretary is responsible for tackling corruption in UK financial markets, is alleged to have brokered a deal with Russia in 2013 that overinflated the price of a new nuclear power plant in Bangladesh.
The allegation is part of a wider investigation by Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) into Siddiq’s aunt, Sheikh Hasina, who was deposed as prime minister of the country in August.
A source close to Siddiq said these were “trumped up charges”.
The source also said the allegations were “completely politically motivated” and designed to damage her aunt.
Conservative shadow home office minister Matt Vickers said: “The fact Labour’s anti-corruption minister is reportedly embroiled in a corruption case is the latest stain on Keir Starmer’s judgement.
“It is high time she came clean. The British public deserve a government that is focused on their priorities, not distracted by yet another scandal.”
Downing Street said Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had confidence in Siddiq, and she will continue her responsibility as the minister overseeing anti-corruption efforts.
Siddiq has “denied any involvement in the claims” accusing her of involvement in embezzlement, according to the prime minister’s official spokesman.
But she has recused herself – or stepped back – from any political decisions involv
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