A man arrested on suspicion of rape at London venue The Groucho Club has been released on bail until late February, the Metropolitan Police has said.
The 34-year-old was arrested in Hertfordshire on Saturday over reports of a woman being raped inside the popular celebrity haunt in November.
He was held in custody for questioning by detectives, before being released as the police investigation continues.
The private members’ club had its licence temporarily suspended last week after a request by police.
In a statement, Scotland Yard said the application raised concerns that the venue had “breached licensing conditions” and had been the scene of a serious criminal offence.
Westminster Council ruled that the club’s licence be suspended for up to 28 days until a full hearing can take place.
The venue is understood to have co-operated with the council’s licensing sub-committee, acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and accepted the decision.
There is no suggestion that Groucho employees were involved in the offence, the force added.
The Groucho Club is one of London’s most well-known private members’ clubs and has a long association with A-list celebrities.
It was originally set up as a more relaxed alternative to traditional gentlemen’s clubs, and current members “should have a creative role within the creative industries and share the club’s maverick spirit”, according to the venue’s website.
Asked about the status of the arrested suspect, the Met said: “The 34-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of rape on Saturday, 30 November has been bailed until a date in late February.”
