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Horgan said he is largely in the dark on the issue.

“I really can’t comment because I don’t know what the allegations are, I don’t know what the scope of any investigations were,” said Horgan.

“I do know both Gary and Craig, I’ve worked with them for many years and hold them in high esteem. But I’m unaware of what led to the events of today.”

Farnworth would not reveal details about the allegations.

Photo by Rob Shaw/Postmedia

However, the B.C. Prosecution Service said that the RCMP asked for a special prosecutor on Sept. 28. Lawyers David Butcher and Brock Martland were publicly named Tuesday to oversee the RCMP investigation and ensure it is free of the perception of political interference. However, they were both appointed to the jobs on Oct. 1, according to the service.

“Given the potential size and scope of the investigation, the (assistant deputy attorney general) determined that two Special Prosecutors would be appointed,” the prosecution service said in a news release.

Alan Mullen, special adviser to Speaker Darryl Plecas said the RCMP is investigating allegations related to the two men and a special prosecutor has been appointed. He would not reveal the nature of the allegations other than they are related to their duties inside the building.

“I can confirm there has been a special prosecutor assigned. I can confirm there is an active and ongoing criminal investigation by the RCMP,” said Mullen.

“It would be inappropriate to say any more because we do not want to jeopardize any investigation the RCMP have ongoing.”

The RCMP confirmed the investigation but also offered few details.

“We are aware of the activities that took place today (Nov. 20) at the B.C. legislature,”said Sgt. Janelle Shoihet from RCMP E Division.

“The RCMP has an active investigation underway, with respect to allegations pertaining to their administrative duties, and we are not in a position to provide any other details or specifics. A thorough investigation is underway and will take the time necessary. Given the nature and the roles of the individuals involved, the RCMP sought the appoint of a special prosecutor.”

The move to put the two senior officials on leave came as a motion to the legislature by Farnworth, which instructed them to be removed from the building and not allowed to access any legislature technology, cellphones or government services. The motion passed unanimously in the house.

At the time, James and Lenz were in the building, meeting with their boss, Speaker Plecas.

“They have not been removed from their positions; they have simply been placed on administrative leave pending that investigation,” said Mullen.

“The house leaders I know had a discussions and decided unanimously, hence the unanimous vote. The speaker was part of those discussions.”