Former BBC journalist Martin Bashir will not be subject to a criminal investigation over the background of his 1995 interview with Princess Diana, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Mr Bashir was alleged of forging bank statements to win the Princess of Wales’ trust ahead of an appearance on Panorama.
It had been alleged that the documents had been used to falsely show payments that had been made to royal staff in exchange for information about Princess Diana.
But today the Metropolitan Police has said that, after assessing the relevant information, a criminal probe would not be appropriate.
The BBC has launched its own independent investigation into the allegations.
Metropolitan Police commander Alex Murray said: “In recent months the Metropolitan police service received correspondence alleging unlawful activity in connection with a documentary broadcast in 1995. This was carefully assessed by specialist detectives.”
He added: “They obtained legal advice from Metropolitan police lawyers, independent counsel and from the Crown Prosecution Service. Following this detailed assessment and in view of the advice we received, we have determined that it is not appropriate to begin a criminal investigation into these allegations. No further action will be taken.
“In this matter, as in any other, should any significant new evidence come to light we will assess it.”
