Conservative MP 'arrested on suspicion of raping woman'

A Conservative MP has reportedly been arrested on suspicion of raping a former parliamentary employee.

The ex-minister was taken into custody early on Saturday after a woman in her 20s accused him of rape, sexual assault, and coercive control, according to The Sunday Times.

The abuse is alleged to have taken place last year and led to the woman going to hospital.

The MP has been taken for questioning at an east London police station.

Scotland Yard confirmed it had launched an investigation.

A spokesperson said: “On Friday, 31 July, the Metropolitan Police Service received allegations relating to four separate incidents involving allegations of sexual offences and assault.

“These offences are alleged to have occurred at addresses in Westminster, Lambeth and Hackney between July 2019 and January 2020.

“The Met has launched an investigation into the allegations.

"A man was arrested on suspicion of rape and is currently in custody in an east London police station.”