Pressure on Keir Starmer mounts as an inquiry probes the MP’s connections to Bangladesh’s controversial political figures.
Tulip Siddiq, the Member of Parliament for Hampstead and Highgate, is “getting on with doing her job,” a Government minister affirmed on Tuesday, despite increasing demands for her resignation. The Labour MP faces scrutiny due to an ongoing independent investigation into her connections to individuals with ties to Bangladesh’s ruling Awami League party, led by her aunt, Sheikh Hasina.
The anti-corruption minister has voluntarily referred herself to the Prime Minister’s ethics adviser following revelations about her residence in London properties linked to political allies of her aunt, who governed Bangladesh with an authoritarian grip from 1996. Siddiq has denied any wrongdoing.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis, speaking to Times Radio, maintained that an independent process was underway. He said, “The independent adviser, Sir Laurie Magnus, will look into the facts and make a judgment. It’s not for me to judge, as I am a colleague of hers in government.” When questioned on whether Siddiq should step aside during the investigation, Jarvis added, “She’s getting on with doing her job, and the Prime Minister’s adviser is reviewing the situation carefully.”
Siddiq’s aunt resigned in August last year following mass protests in Bangladesh, which resulted in significant violence, including over 1,500 deaths. Furthermore, questions have arisen regarding Siddiq’s trips to Russia alongside her aunt, particularly concerning a 2013 deal for a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh, which allegedly involved substantial embezzlement.
In response, Siddiq wrote to Sir Laurie Magnus, urging an independent inquiry into the matter, saying, “For the avoidance of doubt, I would like you to independently establish the facts about these matters.”
The Prime Minister has promised to take action based on the findings of the investigation, regardless of the outcome. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has called for Siddiq’s dismissal, while many senior Labour figures continue to support her.
Locals in Siddiq’s constituency are divided on the issue. Some express confidence in her, with one woman stating, “She’s in no trouble; it’s her aunt who is. I don’t think she should be persecuted.” Virginia Berridge, Chair of Trustees for the Community Association for West Hampstead, added, “She’s been an excellent MP, always attentive to local issues.”
However, others believe her associations with her aunt’s regime may harm the Labour Party’s reputation. One local commented, “It’s a massive conflict of interest,” referencing the links to an autocratic government.
Siddiq has previously stated that she and her aunt have never discussed politics and has attempted to distance herself from the controversial regime.
