REDDITCH MP Rachel Maclean has said Home Secretary Priti Patel "is one of the kindest people you could meet" following an inquiry into allegations of bullying.

Scores of Conservative MPs have rallied in support of Ms Patel amid reports that a bullying inquiry found that she had broken the rules for ministers.

According to reports, she was found to have failed to meet the requirement to treat civil servants with respect and consideration.

In a Tweet made earlier today (Friday, November 20), Mrs Maclean said: "Priti Patel is one of the kindest people you could meet, who takes time to take a personal interest in all her colleagues.

"She is driven to deliver on the priorities of the British people, keeping crime down and protecting our borders."

A Government statement said Prime Minister Boris Johnson has “full confidence” in Ms Patel and “considers this matter now closed”.

Ms Patel apologised for upset caused by her behaviour, saying in a statement: “It has never been my intention to cause upset to anyone.”

A Cabinet Office investigation was launched in March over allegations that Ms Patel belittled colleagues and clashed with senior officials in three different departments.

It followed the resignation of the Home Office’s permanent secretary Sir Philip Rutnam, who accused Ms Patel of a “vicious and orchestrated briefing campaign” against him and is claiming constructive dismissal at an employment tribunal.

Ms Patel has expressed concern at the “false” claims, and allies have described her as a “demanding” boss but not a bully.