Investigation into former Tory MP David Warburton closed

Former Somerton and Frome MP David Warburton says allegations of sexual misconduct against him have been withdrawn.

Mr Warburton was suspended by the Conservative party in April 2022 when claims of sexual misconduct were made against him.

He resigned as an MP last month. He admitted drug-taking but denies any sexual misconduct.

A by-election is being held this Thursday to elect his successor.

The House of Commons Independent Expert Panel (IEP) had ordered a reinvestigation into the allegations earlier this month.

The IEP panel found the first investigation had not been carried out to a sufficient standard, but it did not pass judgement on the allegations themselves and said those questions remain "open".

However, on Sunday a spokesperson for the House of Commons confirmed "the investigation will no longer be proceeding".

Mr Warburton said: "I know it's extremely rare for the Independent Expert Panel to fully uphold an appeal by an MP.

"I'm, of course, delighted but the past year has been extraordinarily painful for my family and for me, and the personal cost has been incalculable.

"As a result - and in order to speak out about the appalling injustice I have experienced - I have had to step down as an MP."

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