The Department of Health and Social Care has escalated its legal battle with a PPE company connected to Conservative peer Michelle Mone, filing a winding-up petition in the High Court that could force the firm into liquidation.
PPE Medpro, which secured massive government contracts during the pandemic's peak, now faces potential closure as officials seek to recover public funds amid ongoing controversy over the company's £203 million deal for surgical gowns.
Legal Escalation in PPE Procurement Saga
The winding-up petition represents a significant intensification of the government's approach to the company that became emblematic of concerns about pandemic procurement processes. Court records confirm the Department of Health initiated the legal action, though specific grounds remain undisclosed.
This development follows months of scrutiny over how PPE Medpro, relatively unknown before the pandemic, secured such substantial contracts through the government's "VIP lane" for referrals from politicians and officials.
Baroness Mone's Continued Involvement
Baroness Mone, who referred the company to ministers, has consistently denied any direct involvement with PPE Medpro. However, documents have revealed her connection to the company's financial structures, including evidence showing her husband received millions from the profits.
The Conservative peer has maintained her position through representatives, stating she has "no role or function" within the company and is "not a party to this legal dispute."
Ongoing National Crime Agency Investigation
Separately, the National Crime Agency continues its criminal investigation into PPE Medpro's dealings and the conduct of individuals connected to the company. The probe examines potential fraud and bribery offences related to the procurement process.
This parallel investigation adds another layer of complexity to a case that has raised significant questions about transparency and accountability in emergency government spending.
Government's Stance on Pandemic Procurement
The Department of Health has defended its overall pandemic procurement strategy, emphasising the extraordinary circumstances of global PPE shortages in 2020. However, officials have become increasingly assertive in pursuing legal action against suppliers who failed to meet contract requirements.
This case represents one of the highest-profile examples of the government seeking accountability for contracts awarded during the health crisis, potentially setting precedents for how similar disputes are handled.
