Jacqui Smith, home secretary

Home secretary: Investigation may be necessary

Home secretary: Investigation may be necessary

By politics.co.uk staff

A criminal investigation into the death of Ian Tomlinson may be necessary, according to the home secretary.

In a statement today, Jacqui Smith appeared open to the possibility of an investigation after a video emerged showing Mr Tomlinson being struck by police just moments before his death

“I’m glad the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) themselves called for further evidence,” she said.

“If it identifies – and I understand people’s concern – the need for a criminal investigation, that also needs to be pursued.”

The IPCC is investigating the incident, but it has decided to manage an inquiry undertaken by the City of London police, rather than launch its own.