MP candidate files a complaint towards Derbyshire Constabulary

MP Candidate Robert Largan has confirmed he has put in a complaint towards Derbyshire Constabulary following last week's hustings in Glossop.  

Largan left the hustings which was held in Glossop last week when two Green party campaigners accused of stalking him turned up. He also did not attend the hustings in Whaley Bridge, which was held on Sunday evening, and has said in future, he will only participate in online hustings but will continue to "keep standing up for the High Peak".

The Conservative candidate said that he “couldn’t take part in an event with two individuals present who are awaiting trial for harassing me. Therefore, I had no choice but to leave the event.”

He added: “I am really sorry that I wasn’t able to take part in the hustings and answer your questions.”

Following this, Largan has since issued a statement confirming he feels let down by Derbyshire Constabulary and has since issued a complaint towards them.

The statement read: “I regret to say that I have lost all confidence in Derbyshire Police. I do not believe they take harassment or the safety and welfare of political candidates seriously.

“As a result, I will not be attending any further hustings events. I don't want to do this. Democracy needs as much interaction and openness as possible. But I also need to consider my safety and that of my staff.

“The murders of Jo Cox and Sir David Amess are a chilling reminder of the risks political figures face. If the police not only fail in their duty but also fail to own up to their shortcomings and actively seek to undermine political candidates, it leaves me with no confidence whatsoever.” 

“I have lodged a formal complaint with Derbyshire Police and will now be considering legal action against them.”

Derbyshire Constabulary have made a statement following the complaint. They said: “During recent weeks events have been held up and down the county without issue and we have worked with both local candidates, as well as with colleagues in the Home Office where appropriate, to ensure the safe running of these events and those who are attending.

“Last week a man and woman were arrested and released on police bail on suspicion of witness intimidation after an incident at a hustings event in Glossopdale.

“Following that incident, the Conservative Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for the High Peak, Robert Largan, made a formal complaint to the force relating to the incident at the hustings and the handling of a previous investigation of harassment.

“That previous investigation had resulted in a man and woman being charged at court with harassment without violence and then released on unconditional bail - with a trial set to take place on 23 July.

“As a result of Mr Largan’s complaints, it would be inappropriate for the force to make further comment at this time. A statement will be made upon the finalisation of the complaint.”