A PORTUGUESE police chief’s reported plan to publish a book about the Madeleine McCann inquiry was described by her parents’ spokesman today as “outrageous”.

Goncalo Amaral was the detective in charge of the investigation until he was removed in October after criticising the British police in a newspaper interview.

According to the Portuguese paper Correio da Manha, he has nearly finished writing his account of the case - and given it the working title Truth Of The Lie.

It is a factual account, said a spokesman for the detective, of a man who lived the investigation “100%”. A publisher is already said to be interested.

Referring to the proposed book and its title, Clarence Mitchell, spokesman for the McCanns, said: “Kate and Gerry have never lied at any stage. They have been utterly open and continue to be so.

“For a book of this nature to be published with such a prejudicial title by Mr Amaral would be frankly quite outrageous.”

The couple, from Rothley, Leicestershire, were made official suspects in their daughter’s disappearance after being interviewed by Portuguese police in September. They strenuously deny any involvement.

Mr Mitchell added: “It’s reported that it will not be published until Kate and Gerry’s arguido status is lifted. We are grateful to Mr Amaral for acknowledging that it will be lifted.

“Our lawyers will enjoy reading this book on its publication.

“We are also concerned to note that a serving police officer is proposing a book to cash in on Madeleine’s disappearance.

“We also expect Mr Amaral to adhere fully to Portugal’s secrecy laws, as we have done all along.”