MPs have been urged not to name the Tory MP arrested on suspicion of rape.
The unnamed MP is in his 50s and is a Conservative politician but his identity is currently under wraps.
Speaker of the House of Commons Lindsay Hoyle told MPs not to name the member saying to do so would be “wholly inappropriate”.
The MP was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including rape, sexual assault and indecent assault.
He said: “The House will know that a member has been arrested in connection with an investigation into an allegation of very serious criminal offences.
“I understand that the member has confirmed he will not attend the House of Commons while the investigation is ongoing.
“I, the House of Commons Commission and the House service take the safety of our staff and parliamentary community as a whole very seriously and are ensuring any necessary measures are taken in respect of MPs, employees and staff.”
Hoyle added: “While the investigation is ongoing I believe that it’d be wholly inappropriate for any further reference to be made to this matter in the House, including any attempt to name the member concerned.
“I’d appreciate your cooperation on this matter.”
Meanwhile, Tory backbencher Michael Fabricant has been accused of making light of the accusations over a tweet he posted.
He tweeted: “I am expecting a strong turnout of Conservative MPs at Prime Minister's Questions today. Not only to demonstrate their strong support for #Boris (!!). BUT also to prove they are NOT the one told by the Chief Whip to stay at home. I'll be there!”
It references the Chief Whip’s assurances the MP in question has agreed not to attend the House of Commons.
Fabricant said: “In no way was I making light of rape or any other assault. They disgust me.
“I was, however, commenting on the speculation as to who the MP might be.”
Scotland Yard said in an updated statement: “In January 2020, the Met received a report relating to alleged sexual offences having been committed between 2002 and 2009.
“The offences are alleged to have occurred in London.
“An investigation is ongoing, led by officers from Central Specialist Crime.
“A man, aged in his 50s, was arrested on suspicion of indecent assault, sexual assault, rape, abuse of position of trust and misconduct in public office.
“He was taken into custody and has since been bailed pending further enquiries to a date in mid-June.”
