Thames Valley Police is facing a major investigation after allegedly failing to warn Sir Keir Starmer about a credible assassination threat against him during Donald Trump's controversial 2019 UK visit. The shocking revelation has raised serious questions about police protocols and political security.
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IOPC) has launched a formal probe into the force's handling of intelligence suggesting a plot to harm the then-Shadow Brexit Secretary. The threat emerged while Mr. Trump was attending a fundraising event at Winfield House in London.
Security Breach During High-Profile Visit
According to documents seen by The Independent, Thames Valley Police received specific intelligence about the threat but apparently did not escalate the information to Sir Keir's security detail. The incident occurred during one of the most sensitive periods of political protection, with both US and UK security services on high alert.
A spokesperson for the Labour leader confirmed: "We have been made aware of this investigation and await its findings with interest." The matter has been referred to the IOPC by Thames Valley Police itself, suggesting internal concerns about their handling of the situation.
Pattern of Concerns Emerges
This isn't the first time Thames Valley Police has faced criticism over its protective security operations. The force, which covers areas including Chequers, the Prime Minister's country retreat, has previously been scrutinised for its protocols regarding high-profile political figures.
The Metropolitan Police, responsible for the central London security operation during Mr. Trump's visit, declined to comment on specific security arrangements. However, sources indicate that such intelligence failures could have had catastrophic consequences had the threat been realised.
Ongoing Investigation and Implications
The IOPC investigation will examine whether Thames Valley Police officers followed appropriate procedures and whether any disciplinary action should be taken. The outcome could have significant implications for how protective security is managed for senior political figures across the UK.
As the investigation continues, security experts are questioning whether current protocols between different police forces are adequate for handling threats against high-profile politicians, particularly during visits by controversial foreign leaders.
