Ex-MP denies receiving heroin from GP
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.THE FORMER Conservative MP, Sir Charles Irving, has denied receiving heroin from a senior GP who is accused of illegally obtaining and supplying the drug.
Sir Charles, MP for Cheltenham for 18 years, confirmed that he had twice been interviewed by detectives investigating the case against Dr Clive Froggatt, who was one of the Government's advisers on changes in the National Health Service.
The former MP, who retired from Parliament in 1992, has been a close personal friend and political associate of the 46-year-old doctor for many years.
In a statement to his local newspaper, the Gloucestershire Echo, Sir Charles said he had never received diamorphine from Dr Froggatt. 'I thought it was a brand of whisky,' he joked. 'Whatever medication has been prescribed for me I have received and had it. If anyone else would like to try it, they are welcome.'
Speaking of Dr Froggatt, he said: 'I am certain he is innocent. He is my best friend and has been for a long time.' Sir Charles confirmed he had spoken to police last week after his return from a brief holiday at his apartment in Tangier, Morocco.
'We had a chat, a friendly casual chat,' he said. 'There was nothing in it at all.
'I am a patient of his and CID officers have seen a number of his patients. As far as I know they have also received the medication they were entitled to or needed and I really don't know any more than that.'
Dr Froggatt is on bail until 10 November, having been remanded by Gloucester magistrates on six charges of possessing, supplying, and illegally obtaining heroin.
He is alleged to have obtained a total of 295mg of diamorphine - the technical name for heroin - from pharmacists and supplied it to another unnamed person.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments