Emma today called on the Government to launch an independent inquiry into allegations that the then Conservative Party Treasurer, Peter Cruddas, offered dinners with the Prime Minister and Chancellor in return for donations above £250,000.

Emma said,“The Government has not taken seriously enough this weekend’s shocking allegations.”

“Given that the Conservative Party Treasurer boasted that he could offer access to the Prime Minister at Downing Street and influence on policy in exchange for donations in the region of £250,000, there should be a truly independent inquiry into this sorry saga.”

“The investigation the Government announced will be led by a Tory peer, but in order to be credible it should be conducted by someone not connected with the Conservative Party. Otherwise it will be an investigation conducted by the Conservative Party, about the Conservative Party and for the Conservative Party.”