Crispin Blunt says he is the Tory MP who has been arrested over rape allegation and possession of a controlled substance
Crispin Blunt #CrispinBlunt
Conservative MP Crispin Blunt has been arrested on suspicion of rape and possessing controlled substances, it was revealed today, but claims the arrest was ‘unnecessary’ and claims he is ‘confident’ he will not be charged.
Blunt took to social media to confirm he was the ‘prominent Tory MP’ who had been interviewed by police on Thursday night, stating he has been questioned by police on two occasions.
The 63-year-old former minister claimed his arrest over the serious allegations was ‘unnecessary’ because he is ‘co-operating’ with police.
It followed reports published on Thursday that a ‘prominent’ Conservative MP had been arrested.
After Blunt identified himself as the man at the centre of the allegations, it was reported he has had the Tory whip suspended and has been asked to stay away from Parliament.
Writing on X, formerly Twitter, the MP for Reigate said: ‘It has been reported that an MP was arrested yesterday in connection with an allegation of rape. I am confirming that MP was me.
Crispin Blunt took to social media on Thursday to identify himself as the MP in question
‘The fact of the arrest requires a formal notification of the Speaker and then the Chief Whip.
‘I have now been interviewed twice in connection with this incident, the first time three weeks ago, when I initially reported my concern over extortion.
‘The second time was earlier this morning under caution following arrest. The arrest was unnecessary as I remain ready to cooperate fully with the investigation that I am confident will end without charge.
‘I do not intend to say anything further on this matter until the police have completed their inquiries.’
The allegations are the latest blow to Rishi Sunak and the Conservative Party, which has been damaged by a string of sleaze allegations.
Former chief whip Chris Pincher was forced out of office last week over claims he groped a man at a party.
And yesterday, Peter Bone – a former minister – was suspended from the Commons for six weeks for bullying and sexual misconduct against a member of staff.
Another Conservative MP is also on bail over sexual assault allegations, which he denies.
After Blunt identified himself as the man at the centre of the allegations, it was reported he has had the Tory whip suspended and has been asked to stay away from Parliament
Mr Sunak’s party is currently behind in the polls, and suffered two shattering blows last week when Labour seized true-blue strongholds Mid Beds and Tamworth, overturning massive majorities.
Experts said the results put Sir Keir Starmer firmly on track for No10 next year. Although by-elections never translate directly, if replicated at a general election the 20-plus percentage point swings seen would see the Conservatives reduced to a rump of just 20 seats.
The public is also seemingly in favour of an election sooner rather than later, according to More in Common research.
Just 12 per cent believe the ballot should happen at the last possible date in January 2025, with 32 per cent backing next May.
A Surrey police spokesman said: ‘We can confirm a man was arrested yesterday morning (25 October) on suspicion of rape and possession of controlled substances.
‘He has been released on conditional police bail pending further enquiries.’
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