Great Yarmouth MP Rupert Lowe Asks High Court to Stop Watchdog Probe on February 24

Great Yarmouth MP Rupert Lowe wants the High Court to pause a watchdog probe. A judge will decide on February 24 if the investigation can continue.
By Newsroom | Politics, UK Law |

A legal move is underway in the High Court as Member of Parliament Rupert Lowe attempts to halt an investigation by the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS). The ICGS is tasked with examining complaints of misconduct within Parliament. Lawyers for Mr. Lowe are seeking a temporary injunction to pause the investigation while a broader legal challenge is considered. A High Court judge is expected to rule on this interim request shortly, with a full hearing scheduled for the following month. The stakes appear high, as the outcome of this probe could have significant consequences for Mr. Lowe's political career.

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The current legal proceedings stem from a complaint made against Rupert Lowe, the independent MP for Great Yarmouth, in July of last year. While the specific details of the complaint remain undisclosed to the public, it has triggered an investigation by the ICGS. Mr. Lowe denies any wrongdoing.

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  • The ICGS is the body responsible for investigating allegations of bullying, harassment, and sexual misconduct within the House of Commons.

  • Mr. Lowe is a sitting MP and, as such, is subject to the established rules and standards of behavior for members of Parliament.

  • The initial complaint was reportedly made in July 2023.

  • Mr. Lowe has sought to have the ICGS's decision to investigate him quashed.

  • A preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 24th to determine whether the High Court has the jurisdiction to hear the full case.

  • A separate, full hearing for the challenge is slated for March.

Lawyers representing Rupert Lowe have approached the High Court, requesting an interim measure to prevent the ICGS from proceeding with its investigation. This request is specifically aimed at temporarily halting the probe until the High Court can make a determination on the larger legal challenge, anticipated at the March hearing.

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  • Mr. Justice Chamberlain is overseeing the case and is due to issue a decision on the request for a temporary block on February 24th.

  • The legal team for the ICGS, represented by Sarah Hannett KC, has argued in written submissions that Mr. Lowe, as a sitting MP, is bound by parliamentary rules and procedures.

  • The ICGS is asserting that the court may not have the legal authority to hear Mr. Lowe's claim.

A Previous Clearing by a Watchdog

It is noteworthy that Rupert Lowe was previously the subject of an investigation by a standards watchdog, related to a "Rape Gang Inquiry" funding matter.

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  • In July 2025, a resolution letter from Mr. Greenberg indicated that evidence did not demonstrate a breach of rules, and the complaint was not upheld.

  • Mr. Lowe had stated that the complaint was a "malicious attempt to shut me down" and provided proof that funds were registered within the required timeframe.

  • This prior instance involved a different complaint and watchdog body.

Opposition to the Investigation

The ICGS, through its legal representation, has put forth its position regarding Mr. Lowe's status as a Member of Parliament.

  • Sarah Hannett KC, acting for the ICGS, has submitted written arguments emphasizing that Mr. Lowe is a serving MP.

  • The submission highlights that as a sitting MP, he is subject to the rules and standards governing the conduct of House of Commons members.

Expert Commentary

The legal maneuver by Rupert Lowe to seek a judicial review of a parliamentary watchdog's investigation is a notable development. Such actions can raise questions about the balance between an individual's right to due process and the need for robust oversight mechanisms within public institutions. The upcoming High Court decisions will be critical in defining the boundaries of these processes.

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Conclusion and Next Steps

The immediate focus is on Mr. Justice Chamberlain's ruling on February 24th, which will determine whether the ICGS investigation into Rupert Lowe will be temporarily suspended pending the full court hearing in March. This initial decision will provide a clear indication of the High Court's willingness to intervene in the watchdog's process. Regardless of this interim ruling, the substantive legal challenge in March will address the core issue of the High Court's authority to review the ICGS's actions and the merits of Mr. Lowe's case. The broader implications of this legal dispute for parliamentary oversight and accountability remain a key point of observation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Great Yarmouth MP Rupert Lowe going to the High Court?
Rupert Lowe's lawyers are asking the High Court to stop an investigation by the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS) into his conduct. They want a temporary pause until a bigger court case can be heard.
Q: When will the High Court decide if the watchdog probe can be stopped for now?
Mr. Justice Chamberlain will decide on February 24 whether to temporarily block the ICGS investigation into Rupert Lowe. A final decision on the main case will be made in March.
Q: What is the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS) investigating?
The ICGS is looking into a complaint made against Rupert Lowe, the MP for Great Yarmouth, in July last year. The exact details of the complaint have not been made public.
Q: What does Rupert Lowe say about the investigation?
Rupert Lowe denies any wrongdoing. His legal team is challenging the ICGS's decision to investigate him.
Q: Has Rupert Lowe been investigated before?
Yes, Rupert Lowe was investigated by a different standards watchdog over a funding matter in July 2025. That complaint was not upheld, and he was cleared of breaking rules.