Dominic Raab: Rishi Sunak orders inquiry into complaints amid 'bullying' row

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab has asked for an investigation into his conduct after two formal complaints against him were submitted to authorities.

One complaint relates to Raab's first tenure as justice secretary, and the other to his time as foreign secretary.

They follow days of bullying allegations and while the PM remains in Bali for the G20 summit.

In a social media post, Raab said: "I look forward to addressing these complaints and continuing to serve as deputy prime minister, justice secretary and Lord Chancellor."

Reports claim that Raab was warned about his conduct after being rude to staff and throwing tomatoes at them.

In a letter to Sunak, he said he had "just been notified" about the complaints, but did not include further details about them. 

He asked the PM to open an investigation into the matter "as soon as possible", adding that he will "cooperate fully". Raab said: "I have always sought to set high standards and forge teams that can deliver for the British people amidst the acute challenges that we have faced in recent years.

"I have never tolerated bullying, and always sought to reinforce and empower the teams of civil servants working in my respective departments."

Sunak has agreed to open an investigation, but it is unclear who will lead this as no replacement was made after previous ethics adviser Lord Geidt quit the role in June.

In a reply to Raab, Sunak said: "Integrity, professionalism and accountability are core values of this government. It is right that these matters are investigated fully."

The news comes one week after Gavin Williamson stepped down from the Cabinet amidst allegations of bullying, including threats to former Tory chief whip Wendy Morton.

Williamson said he was stepping down "with sadness" and to allow the complaints process to "clear my name of any wrongdoing".

Under questioning about the matter at PMQs, Sunak said: "I obviously regret appointing someone who has had to resign under these circumstances."