British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunakhas dismissed the president of the Conservative Party and minister without portfolio, Nadhim Zahawifor violating the ‘code of good ministerial conduct regarding the scandal over his tax return.
In a letter sent to Zahawi, which was reported this Sunday, the head of the Conservative Government points out that “it is clear that there was a serious violation of the ministerial code“.
The scandal surrounding Zahawi broke out a few days ago after he admitted that had paid a fine to the British Exchequer (HMRC) of 4.8 million pounds (5.47 million euros), according to ‘The Guardian’, after detect an error, which he described as “unintentional”, in the payment of taxes.
“When I became prime minister last year, I promised that my government would have integrity, professionalism and responsibility at all levels,” Sunak’s letter states, explaining that he asked Laurie Magnusan independent adviser on the ethical conduct of ministers, to investigate the matter.
“With the independent counsel’s investigation completed, it is clear that there has been a serious violation of the ministerial code. As a result, I have informed him of my decision to remove him from his post in Her Majesty’s Government.”
Highlight your achievements
In the letter, Sunak emphasizes to Zahawi that should feel “proud” of his achievements in the Government during the last five yearssince he had been responsible for the covid-19 vaccination plan and it was also Economy Minister.
“In particular, his successful oversight of the covid-19 vaccine procurement and deployment program which ensured the UK was at the forefront of the global response to the coronavirus pandemic,” the letter underlines.
As revealed by the newspaper ‘The Guardian’ a few days ago, Zahawi had reached an agreement with the Treasury to settle an outstanding debt with a 30% surcharge, which meant 4.8 million pounds. According to Zahawi, who was economy minister last year, the surcharge was related to the signing of YouGov survey, which he founded in 2000.
After the controversy broke out, the Labor Party, first of the British opposition, had called for Zahawi’s resignation.
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The adviser who investigated the matter, as reported today, revealed to Sunak that observed that certain “omissions” by Zahawi when he took office of the prime minister.
According to the adviser, Zahawi did not reveal relevant information about the fine with the Treasury when he was appointed president of the Conservative Party and minister without portfolio last year.