Chris Huhne 'speeding' decision 'close'

Prosecutors are 'very close' to making a decision on whether to pursue Chris Huhne over claims he dodged a speeding penalty (Getty Images)

Prosecutors are "very close" to making a decision on whether to pursue cabinet minister Chris Huhne over claims he dodged a speeding penalty, the Director of Public Prosecutions said today.

Keir Starmer said the only remaining issue was evidence held by a newspaper which the authorities were taking court action to obtain.

"We are very close to a decision. There is one remaining issue which is that we are seeking some material which is held by a national newspaper," he told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"That is the only thing we are waiting for now."

He went on: "I understand why people think it is taking a lot of time but the way in which we get material from journalists is an important principle, quite separate from the Chris Huhne case."

Police began investigating more than five months ago after claims emerged that Mr Huhne asked his ex-wife, Vicky Pryce, to accept penalty points on his behalf.

The force delivered an initial evidence file to the CPS in July, but has since been pursuing other leads.

The speeding offence is alleged to have taken place in 2003 when the then-MEP was driving home from Stansted Airport after flying back from the European Parliament.

Liberal Democrat Mr Huhne - who left Ms Pryce for another woman last year - has denied the allegations and said he hopes the probe will "draw a line" under the furore.

PA