What it’s really like facing a Downing Street police probe

Boris Johnson and No. 10 staff could soon face being interviewed under caution over partygate. While this is remarkable, it is not unprecedented: Downing Street has been the focus of a police investigation before, when Tony Blair, my boss, was prime minister. Fifteen years ago, the ‘cash for peerages’ affair led to me and my colleagues being interviewed by police. So what advice would I give to Downing Street staffers fearing a call from plod?

Those working behind the door of No. 10 should firstly remember that, while they are part of a team, when they speak to police in an interview, they will be alone. It’s an unsettling experience. Police officers are professionals, and have been doing this for their whole career. This is your first – and hopefully only – experience of facing an officer asking awkward questions. Take as much control of the process as you can. Don’t be interviewed in the office, or in a police station.