Tory MP claims sex offender Imran Ahmad Khan ‘did not get fair trial’

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A former justice minister has reiterated his controversial defence of ex-Tory MP Imran Ahmad Khan, who was found guilty of sexually assaulting a teenage boy, arguing the disgraced politician did not get a “fair trial”. A spokesperson for the Conservative Party described Mr Blunt’s views as “wholly unacceptable” while a whips office source said it is expected all Tory MPs respect court judgments. I know what decisions were made within the trial, which meant that, in my judgment, he did not get a fair trial or anything remotely like that Crispin Blunt Reflecting on his initial statement, Mr Blunt told the BBC: “I didn’t know Imran – I got to know him in the first few weeks of 2019 and 2020 and thoroughly enjoyed his company, and could well see why he’d be a terrific parliamentarian with an enormous amount to contribute. I remain totally convinced.” Mr Blunt admitted he did not attend the whole trial, but said: “I know what decisions were made within the trial, which meant that, in my judgment, he did not get a fair trial or anything remotely like that.” Pressed on whether he still believes that now, he said: “Yes, I do.” Mr Blunt also said he was not present in court for the witness evidence.