Probe urged after Lee Rigby slogan used by extremist party

An independent investigation is to examine the Electoral Commission's decision to allow an extremist party to use a slogan featuring murdered soldier Lee Rigby.

Jenny Watson, chair of the independent commission, said today that "an immediate and full independent investigation" will follow to "prevent this from ever happening again".

The watchdog issued an apology yesterday for allowing Britain First to use the description "Remember Lee Rigby" on voting slips for next month's European elections.

House of Commons Speaker John Bercow has requested an urgent independent inquiry after the Electoral Commission's decision to allow an extremist party to use a slogan featuring murdered soldier Lee Rigby.

According to his spokeswoman, Mr Bercow said: "The speaker was told about the Electoral Commission's decision this afternoon. He understands the grave concern felt over this alarming development and awaits (Cabinet Office Minister Greg Clark's) letter.

Read: Probe urged after Rigby slogan used by extremist party

"The speaker wishes to see an independent inquiry, conducted as a matter of urgency. He will look forward to the publication of the report of that inquiry, which he and his colleagues will carefully consider."

Read: Election body apologises for allowing Lee Rigby slogan

The Electoral Commission should face a "full investigation" over its decision to allow an extremist party to use a slogan featuring murdered soldier Lee Rigby, the Government said.

The watchdog issued an apology yesterday for allowing Britain First to use the description "Remember Lee Rigby" on voting slips for next month's European elections.

Cabinet Office Minister Greg Clark has now written to House of Commons speaker John Bercow to request an investigation into the error is brought forward by the parliamentary committee which oversees the commission's work.

Mr Clark said: "It is sickening that anyone should attempt to make political capital out of Lee Rigby's murder [...] The whole country will be outraged that the memory of Lee Rigby should be abused in this way, and our heart goes out to his family, friends and colleagues."

Read: Election body apologises for allowing Lee Rigby slogan

The Electoral Commission has been forced to apologise after allowing an extremist party to use a slogan featuring murdered soldier Lee Rigby.

The watchdog had approved use of the slogan "Remember Lee Rigby" by the 'Britain First' party on voting slips at the European elections next month.

Jenny Watson, the chair of the commission, said use of the slogan "should never have been permitted".

"We are deeply sorry for the offence that has been caused and I have apologised to Lee Rigby's family," she added.

"We are particularly sorry at the pain that this will cause them, particularly since polling day falls on the first anniversary of Drummer Rigby's murder."