Reuters is reporting that Mike Hancock, Lib Dem MP for Portsmouth South, has been arrested on suspicion of indecent assault. Hancock, who is also a local councillor, has been released on police bail until 10th January.
As we reported earlier today, in a statement on his website yesterday, Hancock said
I can confirm that I was questioned on Tuesday 12 October by officers of the Hampshire Police in relation to allegations made against me by one individual. I attended the police station voluntarily, cooperated fully and answered all questions that were asked.
Normal processes now have to be followed by the police, which I entirely understand.
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8 Comments
Yes – I noticed BBC had it on their website this morning. I’ve not been listening to the radio, so I don’t know whether the story has been reported in their news bulletins/WorldatOne.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-11530547
Not a lot you can say until the matters such as this are decided by a court – if it goes to court.
When will the Lib Dems suspend him from the parliamentary party which is what other parties do to MPs when arrested?
HF Is that what normally happens ? I must admit Im not sure. If anyone can give examples that would be helpful.
When anyone is accused of serious charges likely to impact on their job, precautionary suspension is the normal action taken while investigations are carried out. I think commenting on the actual case while it is ongoing is not helpful, and is likely to prejudice the outcome.
Paul Barker, here is one example of a suspension after arrest and bail.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/tory-mp-suspended-after-assault-claims-403578.html
“Mr Pelling was arrested last Tuesday after his second wife, Lucy, accused him of assault. He was released on bail the same night after being questioned.”
“A Conservative MP has been suspended from the party following his arrest last week on suspicion of assaulting his wife.”
HF & Tim 13, tend to agree, a precautionary suspension would be reasonable.
Shame. Ultimately I obviously hope justice is done. But the little I know of this particular MP he seems a decent guy.
Mike Hancock has not been charged – let alone convicted. Even MPs are innocent until proved guilty.