The London Metropolitan Police have demanded whoever is responsible for the leak of communications, which was widely condemned by US President Donald Trump, turn themselves in. Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said: “Following a cross-government investigation led by the Cabinet Office a Gateway Process has occurred today with the Metropolitan Police into the alleged leaking of official communications involving Sir Kim Darroch. As a result the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command, who take national responsibility for investigating allegations of criminal breaches of the Official Secrets Act, has launched a criminal investigation.

“Given the widely reported consequences of that leak I am satisfied that there has been damage caused to UK international relations, and there would be clear public interest in bringing the person or people responsible to justice.

“The investigation will be reviewed at every stage to ensure a proportionate investigation is undertaken.

“I would say to the person or people who did this, the impact of what you have done is obvious.

“However, you are now also responsible for diverting busy detectives from undertaking their core mission. You can stop this now. Turn yourself in at the earliest opportunity, explain yourself and face the consequences.

“Also, to anyone who knows or suspects those responsible, or who has any information, please come forward.

“Exercise your public and civic duty and call the police on 0800 789321 without delay. That call will be treated in strictest confidence.

“The publication of leaked communications, knowing the damage they have caused or are likely to cause may also be a criminal matter.

“I would advise all owners, editors and publishers of social and mainstream media not to publish leaked government documents that may already be in their possession, or which may be offered to them, and to turn them over to the police or give them back to their rightful owner, Her Majesty’s Government.”

The probe comes as Sir Kim Darroch, the UK’s ambassador to the US, resigned after memos in which he called Donald Trump “inept” were leaked.

In a letter to the head of the Foreign Office, Sir Simon McDonald, Sir Kim said the current situation had made it “impossible” for him to carry out his job.

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