Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy has launched a scathing attack on the Metropolitan Police following officers' controversial entry into the Algerian embassy, demanding immediate answers from Home Secretary James Cleverly about the legally questionable operation.
The senior Labour MP has submitted an urgent parliamentary question seeking clarification on what authorities permitted the extraordinary police action at the diplomatic premises. "The fundamental principle of embassy inviolability appears to have been seriously compromised," Lammy stated, highlighting the potential breach of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
Diplomatic Fallout Feared
This unprecedented police intervention at the Algerian embassy in London's diplomatic quarter has raised alarm bells across Westminster. Embassy buildings enjoy special protection under international law, making this incident particularly troubling for UK-Algerian relations.
Lammy's intervention comes amid growing concerns about the operational judgement of Metropolitan Police leadership. "The British government must explain how this was allowed to happen and what steps they're taking to prevent damage to our international relationships," the shadow minister demanded.
Legal Experts Express Concern
Constitutional law specialists have described the police action as highly unusual and potentially unlawful. The Vienna Convention, which Britain has ratified, clearly states that embassy premises are inviolable and agents of the receiving state cannot enter without the head of mission's consent.
This incident follows other recent controversies involving the Metropolitan Police, raising questions about operational oversight and respect for established diplomatic protocols. The Home Office now faces mounting pressure to provide a comprehensive explanation to Parliament.
What Happens Next?
- Home Secretary James Cleverly must respond to Lammy's urgent question within parliamentary timeframe
- Metropolitan Police Commissioner may be called to explain operational decision-making
- Potential formal complaint from Algerian government pending investigation outcomes
- Possible review of police protocols regarding diplomatic premises
As this diplomatic storm unfolds, all eyes remain on the Home Office's response and whether this incident will trigger a formal review of police powers concerning foreign embassies on UK soil.
