Police have arrested a 46-year-old man on suspicion of malicious communication following a threatening call to the Finchley and Golders Green MP’s office last week

A man has been arrested today in connection with threatening behaviour towards Finchley and Golders Green MP Mike Freer.

The police received a report from Freer’s office on Thursday (1st February) that the MP had received an abusive and threatening call on Wednesday.

A 46-year-old man was arrested today on suspicion of malicious communication and he remains in custody at a north London police station.

In December, a woman and a man were remanded in custody following a separate investigation into an arson attack at Freer’s office. They have been charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

Police do not believe the two incidents are linked.

Detective Superintendent Will Lexton-Jones said: “It is vitally important for elected officials and their staff they can be confident in their safety and security, and we are committed to ensuring this.

“Today’s arrest sends a clear message we will not tolerate threats or aggression of any kind towards elected officials. We will deal quickly and robustly with such offences.

“We are in regular contact with MPs and other elected officials and fully recognise the growing concerns they are telling us about their safety, and as you would expect, we have kept Mr Freer MP updated throughout this investigation including today’s arrest.”

Mike Freer announced last week that he would be stepping down from parliament following the arson attack and ongoing violent threats and intimidation.

Labour candidate Sarah Sackman wrote a column for Barnet Post yesterday responding to this situation.

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