POLICE ARREST TORY MP OVER RAPE AND SEX OFFENCES

Conservative politician accused of a string of assaults spanning seven years

- John Twomey

A CONSERVATIVE MP has been arrested on suspicion of rape and sexual offences spanning seven years, it was revealed yesterday.

The politician, who is in his 50s, is being investigated for a series of alleged sex crimes between 2002 and 2009. The allegations also include "abuse of position of trust” and "misconduct in public office".

The arrest is another blow to the standing of politicians in Britain following various sexual misconduct allegations and the Partygate and Beergate accusations involving Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.

Ironically, Mr Johnson told the Cabinet yesterday he wants a law and order crackdown, saying: “Crime, crime, crime is what we want to focus on. We want to see more rapists brought to justice.”

In relation to the arrest of the MP, a complaint was first made to the Metropolitan Police in January 2020, Scotland Yard said yesterday.

The alleged offences are said to have been committed in London.

Following his arrest, the unnamed MP has been asked to stay away from Westminster while Scotland Yard inquiries continue.