Cherie cleared of ‘slapping’ teenager
Cherie Blair has been cleared following a police investigation after she playfully tapped a teenager at a sporting event on Saturday.
The exchange between the prime minister’s wife and 17-year old Miles Gandolfi – which took place when the pair were having their photograph taken at the UK School Games in Glasgow – sparked a six-detective strong probe by Strathclyde Police
Mrs Blair, who is also a barrister and crown court judge, harmlessly swiped at the teenager after he made a “rabbit ear” gesture behind her head.
Both parties had thought the incident was a bit of fun, but police had to act after receiving complaints from the Child Protection in Sport Unit.
Downing Street has confirmed that the case is now closed and that no further action would be taken against Mrs Blair.
A spokesman said: “Strathclyde Police undertook an investigation, including taking statements from a number of people who were present.
“These included the 17-year-old boy involved and Mrs Blair’s protection officer, who was with her at all times, who said that nothing had occurred between Mrs Blair and the youngster.”
Bill Aitken, Conservative MSP for Glasgow, said: “This has all the hallmarks of a monumental waste of police time. They have a duty to follow up any complaints, but I’m glad to say they’re dropping it and getting on with catching criminals.”
Mr Gandolfi said he had “no idea why” he made the gesture, adding “it was just a bit of fun.
“I didn’t expect anything to come of it, she just tapped me and said ‘you’re lucky I have such a good sense of humour’.
“I didn’t think there would be any trouble about it.”
His mother, Catherine, insisted: “It was all done in good fun. Miles didn’t have a problem with it and she didn’t either.”
