Police probe Tory Senedd member's expenses claims

A Senedd member is being investigated by South Wales Police and the Welsh Parliament's standards watchdog over allegations of making false expenses claims.

BBC Wales understands the standards commissioner referred a complaint about Laura Anne Jones to the police after messages came to light which allegedly suggested a former staff member was told to claim for travel on her behalf which had not taken place.

Ms Jones, Conservative shadow culture minister, said she will co-operate with "any investigation".

A senior Tory source said an internal investigation is taking place but the whip has not been removed, meaning she stays in the Senedd Conservative group.

It is the responsibility of the Standards Commissioner, Douglas Bain, to independently investigate complaints into the conduct of Senedd members.

Messages apparently came to light as part of a complaint to the commissioner, by a now former member of Laura Anne Jones's staff, relating to alleged bullying allegations against another member of office staff.

It is understood the standards commissioner's investigation is on hold while the police investigation is taking place, and police have spoken to at least one Conservative member of staff as part of their investigation.

A spokesperson on behalf of the Welsh Conservatives has said that this is "a confidential process between the standards commissioner and the member".

In a statement, Laura Anne Jones said: "I would cooperate fully with any investigation into my activities as a Member of the Senedd, as would be expected of any member.

“The standards process is confidential, and I would expect others not to provide a running commentary, or they may risk jeopardising the integrity of that process.”

South Wales Police has not confirmed its investigation because it does not comment on requests relating to "named individuals".