UK

Arrest in National Crime Agency investigation into PPE Medpro

A 46-year-old man was held at his home in Barnet, north London, on Wednesday.

The 46-year-old man, from Barnet, north London, was held at his home on Wednesday morning, the NCA said
The 46-year-old man, from Barnet, north London, was held at his home on Wednesday morning, the NCA said (Alamy Stock Photo)
By Margaret Davis, PA Crime Correspondent

A 46-year-old man has been arrested as part of the National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation into PPE Medpro.

The suspect, from Barnet, north London, was held at his home on Wednesday morning, the NCA said.

It is carrying out an investigation into suspected criminal offences in the procurement of PPE contracts by PPE Medpro.

Michelle Mone in 2014
Michelle Mone in 2014 (Philip Toscano/PA)

Baroness Michelle Mone, 52, and her husband Doug Barrowman, 59, have faced controversy over the so-called “VIP lane” contracts granted to some suppliers during the coronavirus pandemic.

PPE Medpro, a consortium led by Mr Barrowman, was awarded Government contracts worth more than £200 million to supply personal protective equipment after Lady Mone recommended it to ministers.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has since issued breach of contract proceedings over the 2020 deal on the supply of gowns.

Both Lady Mone and Mr Barrowman deny any wrongdoing.