Conservative MP in custody after being arrested on suspicion of rape and sexual assault

ITV News Political Reporter Shehab Khan sets out the allegations against the unnamed Tory MP

A Conservative MP remains in custody after being arrested on suspicion of rape and sexual assault offences.

The unnamed man, in his 50s, was also arrested on allegations of abuse of position of trust and misconduct in a public office.

Police have not named the man or confirmed his profession. In a statement the Metropolitan Police said the alleged sexual offences all took place in London between 2002 and 2009.

Conservative Party Chief Whip Chris Heaton-Harris confirmed the MP involved has been asked not to attend Parliament while the investigation is ongoing.

A statement from the whips office said: "The chief whip has asked that the MP concerned does not attend the Parliamentary estate while an investigation is ongoing.

“Until the conclusion of the investigation we will not be commenting further."

It is understood the Conservatives will not make a decision on whether the MP has the whip suspended until the police investigation is concluded.

Conservative sources declined to identify the man arrested, citing the need to protect the identify of the alleged victim.

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