Misconduct In Public Office: Time For A Reset?

This article was first published on May 1, 2026 in the New Law Journal.

The centuries‑old common‑law offence of misconduct in public office (MiPO) has re‑entered the headlines in recent weeks.

In February, Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor and Peter Mandelson were both arrested on suspicion of MiPO and later released, in the context of investigations relating to the Epstein Files. In early March, Police Federation Chief Executive Mukund Krishna was arrested on suspicion of fraud by abuse of position, while retired Metropolitan Commander, Karen Findlay, was reportedly facing potential charges, including MiPO. Meanwhile, several public inquiries (such as the UK Covid‑19 Inquiry, the Post Office Inquiry and the Infected Blood Inquiry) continue to examine the conduct of public officials – ranging from former prime ministers and cabinet ministers to senior Post Office executives and public health officials.