Nick Conrad stands down as Conservative candidate after rape comments row
The newly-selected Conservative candidate for Broadland in Norfolk has stood down after just 24 hours following widespread condemnation of comments he made about rape on his radio show five years ago.
The former BBC Radio Norfolk presenter issued what he called a heartfelt apology for his comments but said the media attention had become a distraction.
He said that he viewed success for the Conservatives as the most important thing and that he would reluctantly stand down to allow another candidate to fight for the seat.
Below is the full statement from Nick Conrad.