Sutton Coldfield MP apologises after 'rant' at police

Sutton Coldfield MP Andrew Mitchell Credit: PA

Government chief whip and the MP for Sutton Coldfield Andrew Mitchell has apologised after reportedly launching a tirade at police officers on Downing Street.

According to The Sun newspaper, the Conservative MP swore at the officers and called them "plebs", when they made him wheel his bike out of the pedestrian exit instead of opening the main gate.

Mr Mitchell reportedly told the officer at the gates to "learn your place" and "you don't run this government".

The Cabinet member said he "did not treat the police with the respect they deserve" but denies using language quoted in the newspaper.

A spokesperson for No10 said the Prime Minister "is glad that Mitchell has apologised" and said "police should always be treated with respect".

The Metropolitan Police has not lodged a complaint.

Mr Mitchell was appointed to the role of chief whip in this month's Cabinet reshuffle, having previously served as International Development Secretary.

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