Craig Mackinlay MP expenses case file passed to lawyers

Craig Mackinlay was elected MP for South Thanet in 2015

Police investigating the 2015 General Election expenses of Conservative MP Craig Mackinlay have sent a file to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

Kent Police confirmed officers had sent the file to its lawyers following an investigation.

Mr Mackinlay beat Nigel Farage in the seat of South Thanet two years ago.

The CPS will decide whether any charges should be brought against either Mr Mackinlay or his agent. Mr Mackinlay said he had done nothing wrong.

In a statement, the MP added: "I have... acted honestly and properly throughout."

Mr Mackinlay has said he plans to stand again in the seat in this year's general election.

Police said officers investigating offences under the Representation of the People's Act 1983 submitted the file to the CPS earlier this month.

The CPS confirmed it had received a file but did not comment further.

The South Thanet campaign in the 2015 poll saw Nigel Farage (left) lose to Craig Mackinlay (right)