Rishi Sunak investigated by police for not wearing seatbelt in moving car - PM ‘accepts mistake’

Police have opened an investigation into Prime Minister Rishi Sunak after the Tory leader posted a video showing him not wearing a seatbelt in a moving car. The clip was posted on Instagram on Thursday but has since been deleted.

The breach of the law could see Mr Sunak liable to be fined up to £500. Lancashire Constabulary are looking into the incident and making further enquiries.

Downing Street has confirmed the Prime Minister apologised for what they have categorised as a “brief error of judgement”. A spokesperson for No. 10 said: “ That was a brief error of judgement. The Prime Minister removed his seatbelt to film a short clip. The Prime Minister believes everyone should wear a seatbelt. It was an error of judgement; he removed it for a short period of time to film a clip, which you’ve seen, but he accepts that was a mistake.”

The Labour Party has come out to criticise Rishi Sunak for the act with a spokesperson issuing the following statement: “Rishi Sunak doesn’t know how to manage a seatbelt, his debit card, a train service, the economy, this country. This list is growing every day, and it’s making for endless painful viewing.”

Legally there are several exemptions to the requirement of wearing a seatbelt in moving vehicles, such as when it is used for police, fire and rescue services, and for those with certified medical problems. Travelling in a vehicle without wearing a seat belt when none of the exemptions apply carries an on-the-spot Fixed Penalty Notice of £100. If the case goes to court, the fine could increase to £500. It isn’t an endorsable offence  however, so doesn’t incur licence penalty points.