Lucy Letby Case: Conduct of Cheshire Police

Nusrat Ghani Excerpts

Thursday 26th March 2026 Commons Chamber

Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House do now adjourn.—(Deirdre Costigan.)

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Ms Nusrat Ghani)]

Before we come to the Adjournment debate, I should inform the House that there are live inquests into the deaths of six babies, so those cases are technically sub judice under the rules of the House. However, Mr Speaker has issued a waiver for today’s debate to allow the cases to be referred to, given that the inquests have been adjourned for a number of months.

--- Later in debate ---

[David Davis]

I am not easily embarrassed, but the hon. Member—

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

Order.

--- Later in debate ---

[Sarah Jones]

I will of course take that away. We are always looking at ways to improve the IOPC system. I was with the IOPC earlier today talking about its transformation programme and the work we are trying to do.

The right hon. Gentleman made a number of remarks about Cheshire constabulary—he can have his view. His Majesty’s inspector, through his Peel inspections, has in fact given it some of the highest ratings in the country, with two “outstanding” ratings and four “good” ratings, as well as two graded “adequate”. I put that on the record in the context of this conversation. In that context, it is important that we as Members of Parliament should not undermine public confidence in the police and the criminal justice system. We need to be careful to avoid implying impropriety where none has been established.

The right hon. Gentleman said that he will write to the DPP. He will take that through its course. I end by reminding the House that this country uses due process, and due process has been followed in the convictions of Lucy Letby, with a trial by jury, upheld on appeal. I remain confident of that and of the effectiveness of Cheshire constabulary. I congratulate the right hon. Gentleman on securing the debate. I also wish you, Madam Deputy Speaker, and everyone else here a happy Easter.

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Ms Nusrat Ghani)]

I, too, wish everybody, and especially my constituents in Sussex Weald, a very happy Easter.

Question put and agreed to.