Boris Johnson did not put pressure on over Lebedev peerage, says watchdog chief

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Lord Bew, chairman of the House of Lords Appointments Commission, told MPs the assessment for the media mogul, whose father was a former KGB agent, was a “unique” process that involved security checks. Crossbencher Lord Bew told the Commons Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee on Wednesday: “There was no pressure on this issue from No 10 or the Prime Minister.” Lord Bew, a former chairman of the Committee on Standards in Public Life, said there was a back-and-forth with security services and a search for clarification, but stressed there was no warning or delay issued about Lord Lebedev. Asked if such a comment was made in relation to Lord Lebedev’s case, Lord Bew replied: “The fact that we mentioned this point in the letter to Sir Keir when he had inquired to us about this incident, may be something that a reasonable person might comment on and think about.” open image in gallery Alexander Lebedev Russian-born businessman Lord Lebedev has insisted he has “nothing to hide” amid the appointment row. “It was certainly absolutely clear to me that the Prime Minister wanted this person in a big way.” Asked how he had come to that conclusion, Lord Bew, who has been chairman since October 2018, replied: “The only conversation of substance with the Prime Minister since I have been in this job was on this appointment.” He warned that an attempt by Mr Johnson to act similarly again could undermine the authority of the watchdog.