Tory MP arrested on suspicion of rape released on bail

Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The Conservative MP arrested on suspicion of rape and sexual assault offences has now been released on bail pending further enquiries by the Metropolitan Police. In an updated statement on Wednesday, the force said he has “been bailed pending further enquiries to a date in mid-June”, adding: “An investigation is ongoing.” Officers received a report about the MP in January 2020 relating to alleged sexual offences committed in London between 2002 and 2009. Deputy general secretary Garry Graham said: “What will it take for parliament to finally take its responsibility to its staff and visitors seriously and suspend access to the estate for parliamentarians under investigation for sexual offences?” Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said she was “very, very concerned” that a Tory colleague had been arrested – but would not be drawn on whether the whip should be removed. A statement from the Tory whips’ office said: “The chief whip has asked that the MP concerned does not attend the parliamentary estate while an investigation is ongoing.