A former Conservative minister has been suspended from his trade envoy role after explosive claims he was paid to ask government questions on behalf of a private firm.
George Freeman, MP for Mid Norfolk, was “asked to step back” from his official position last night, following serious concerns over a potential breach of parliamentary rules.
🕵️♂️ Accused of taking cash to ask questions
Freeman, who served under both Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson, had been a trade envoy to Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Brunei. But Downing Street confirmed on Monday evening that he had been suspended pending an investigation.
The Sunday Times claims Freeman was paid by a greenhouse gas emissions monitoring company, GHGSat, and then allegedly asked ministers questions related to the firm’s industry – questions he’d reportedly drafted after consulting the company itself.
🧾 Self-referral and denial
Freeman has referred himself to the Parliamentary Standards Commissioner but maintains he did “nothing wrong”.
“I regularly ask experts for clarification on technical points and terminology,” he said, adding that he’s a “long-standing advocate” of new tech.
He also claimed to respect the code of conduct and said he always aims to act in the public interest.
“Throughout my 15 years in parliament I have always understood the need to be transparent in my work for commercial clients and charities.”
However, Freeman also raised concerns over how the leak emerged.
“I am very concerned at the unauthorised and targeted access to my emails and diary,” he said, confirming he’s reported it to both police and parliamentary authorities.
⏳ Investigation underway
Downing Street stressed the investigation is a matter for parliament and that Freeman’s suspension is a precaution while the probe is ongoing.
“It is right he has been asked to step back,” said a No.10 spokesperson.
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