Met Police ordered to reinvestigate Graham Linehan arrest over discrimination claim

Scotland Yard has been ordered by the police watchdog to re-examine a discrimination claim made by writer Graham Linehan concerning his arrest at Heathrow Airport. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) identified shortcomings in how the Metropolitan Police handled the initial investigation into the complaint.

Mr Linehan, aged 58, was detained at the west London airport in September 2025. He was suspected of inciting violence following posts made on X, formerly Twitter. Following his arrest, Mr Linehan received an apology and a settlement from the Met after filing a civil claim, reportedly amounting to £25,000.

Watchdog's Findings

The police watchdog confirmed that Mr Linehan requested a review of the Met's handling of his complaint about the investigation and his treatment by officers. This review, received in May 2026, included an allegation that he was discriminated against because of his gender-critical beliefs. The IOPC ruled that the Met's initial response to the complaint was not adequate.

An IOPC spokesman stated in October that the outcome of the complaint investigation was not reasonable or proportionate. The watchdog directed the Met to reinvestigate several allegations. These included a failure to provide satisfactory explanations for the grounds of Mr Linehan's arrest and not pursuing lines of inquiry regarding a complaint about his bail conditions. The force was also directed to reinvestigate the specific allegation of discrimination.

The IOPC also noted that Mr Linehan will have a further right of review if he remains dissatisfied with the outcome of the Met's reinvestigation. Mr Linehan is known for co-creating the Channel 4 comedy Father Ted, as well as his work on the sitcoms The IT Crowd and Black Books.

The Metropolitan Police have been contacted for comment. Mr Linehan's arrest had previously drawn criticism from some Conservative politicians and author J.K. Rowling.