Ribble Valley MP speaks out over sex claims

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons was released on bail last night after being arrested by police at his home on suspicion raping one man and sexually assaulting another between July 2009 and March 2013.

The 55-year-old denied the allegations and said he had no idea why the claims had been made by two people he “regarded as friends”.

In a short statement outside his home in Pendleton, near Clitheroe, he said: “Yesterday I was interviewed by the police concerning two complaints – one of which dates back four years, made by two people who are well-known to each other, and who until yesterday I regarded as friends.

“The complaints are completely false and I cannot understand why they have been made, especially as I have continued to socialise with one as recently as last week.

“I appreciate the way the police have handled this in such a sensitive manner.

“And I would like to thank my colleagues, friends and members of the public who have expressed their support, and like me, a sense of incredulity at these events. Thank you very much.”