Onasanya: Appeal failed
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) confirmed today that it is prosecuting MP Fiona Onasanya after she was convicted of perverting the course of justice by lying about a speeding offence.
In January, the ex-Labour MP for Peterborough was sentenced to three months in prison [1] and failed in an appeal.
The charge before the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal is that, as a result of her conviction, she failed to uphold the proper administration of justice, act with integrity and behave in a way that maintains the trust the public places in her and the provision of legal services.
The tribunal has certified that there is a case to answer, but the allegations remain as yet unproven until there is a hearing.
Sentencing her at the Old Bailey, Mr Justice Stuart-Smith repeatedly referred to Ms Onasanya’s role as a solicitor – she was previously a commercial property specialist.
“The fact remains that, both as a solicitor and as a Member of Parliament you are fully aware of the importance of upholding the proper administration of justice.
“You have not simply let yourself down; you have let down those who look to you for inspiration, your party, your profession and Parliament.
“The impact of your conviction has been disastrous for you. You have been expelled from the Labour Party and it seems inevitable that you will be struck off as a solicitor.”
Stuart-Smith J said he would not treat Ms Onasanya “more severely” because of her position as an MP and solicitor, but “there cannot be one law for those in positions of power, privilege and responsibility and another for those who are not”.