An SNP MP has called for the police to investigate allegations of “cash for honours” in the Conservative Party.
Pete Wishart wrote to the Met in the wake of a media investigation into the number of ex-Tory treasurers who ended up in the House of Lords.
The party said the complaint has been acknowledged by the Commissioner’s office.
In his letter, Wishart wrote: “The investigation must, I believe, focus on the evidence uncovered as part of a joint investigation by the ‘openDemocracy’ website and the ‘Sunday Times’ newspaper.
“Since the Conservative party returned to power in 2010, successive prime ministers have elevated nine of the party’s former treasurers to the House of Lords.
“Each of those appointed since 2014 has donated at least £3million. Any investigation must uncover any process or link between these donations and the subsequent appointment of these individuals to the House of Lords.”
His letter also stated: "The emerging allegations, which have been widely referred to as the 'cash for honours' scandal, are deeply undermining public trust and confidence."
A UK Government spokesperson said: “Peerages reflect long-standing contributions to civic life and also a willingness to further contribute to public life as a legislator in the Second Chamber.
“It is wrong to criticise individuals being honoured just because they have also chosen to support or donate to a political party. Donations should be transparent, but that is not an excuse to knock people for broader philanthropy, enterprise and public service.
“Volunteering and supporting a political party is part of our civic democracy.
“In the UK, taxpayers do not have to bankroll political parties’ campaigning. Political parties have to raise money themselves, and follow transparency and compliance rules laid out in law.”
The Met has been contacted.
