A police chief has apologised to the Tories in the latest twist in the Damian Green arrest row.

Bob Quick, the head of Britain’s counter-terror squad, has said sorry over his claims the party had mobilised the press against him.

Mr Quick, Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner, said on Monday: "I have now reflected on the comments I made at a difficult time for me and my family.

"I wish to make clear it was not my intention to make any allegations and retract my comments. I apologise unreservedly for any offence or embarrassment that I have caused.”

This was the latest turn in a row that has rumbled on since Ashford MP Damian Green was arrested on November 27 over alleged Home Office leaks.

Mr Quick is heading the investigation and the Conservatives had demanded an apology after he was reported to have commented on Sunday: "The Tory machinery and their press friends are mobilised against this investigation."

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