British Politician Accused of Causing Road Accident While Using Mobile Phone

­The Deputy Leader of the UK's governing Labour Party has been accused of causing a road accident while talking on a mobile phone. Harriet Harman MP is being investigated by police after also allegedly leaving the scene of the accident without leaving her car insurance details.

The Guardian newspaper reported witnesses as saying that she drove off without leaving her insurance or registration details - an offence carrying a possible six-month jail term.

When approached by a witness, she is alleged to have responded, "I'm Harriet Harman - you know where you can get hold of me"

It is not clear at the moment if she was using a hands-free unit while talking on the mobile phone, although the reports that she was seen using a phone suggest not. The current government introduced a ban on using a mobile phone while talking in 2003, with fines of up to £1,000 if the matter is taken to court.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "We are in the process of taking statements from all the parties concerned. No injuries were reported and inquiries continue."

A spokeswoman for the MP said yesterday: "Ms Harman strongly refutes the allegations but is co-operating fully with the police."

Ms Harman has been previously fined in 2003 and 2007 for speeding offenses.

On the web: The Guardian

Posted to the site on 4th October 2009