PM

PM ‘shocked’ by arrest of Conservative MP on rape charges

The prime minister is “shocked” by the accusations of sexual assault and rape against a Conservative MP.

Speaking to this afternoon’s press lobby, a No 10 spokesperson told journalists: “The PM was shocked to learn of these allegations.”

“As far as I know, the prime minister was informed yesterday.”

Scotland Yard have said the arrest was of a “man, aged in his 50s… on suspicion of indecent assault, sexual assault, rape, abuse of position of trust and misconduct in public office.

“He was taken into custody and has since been bailed pending further enquiries to a date in mid-June.”

The MP has not yet been named by the police or the Conservative Party.

Responding to questions over why the MP in question may not have the whip withdrawn she said “there could be an impact on the victim and that is a matter for the police” if the MP’s name were to be made public.

Scotland Yard said earlier today that the man has been “bailed pending further enquiries to a date in mid-June”.

“In January 2020, the Met received a report relating to alleged sexual offences having been committed between 2002 and 2009.

“The offences are alleged to have occurred in London. An investigation is ongoing, led by officers from Central Specialist Crime.