Top Home Office mandarin knew of Braverman’s alleged speeding request

Permanent secretary told about alleged request in autumn, say sources, as home secretary fails to calm Tory nerves in Commons

The most senior civil servant in the Home Office was made aware of allegations that Suella Braverman wanted civil service help in dealing with a speeding fine, the Guardian understands.

The development raises questions about how many other senior officials and ministers across Whitehall were then informed about the claims, and puts pressure on the prime minister to order an investigation into the allegations.