Claims of Serial Tory Rapist
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has addressed the "very serious" allegations of a serial Tory rapist, urging anyone with evidence to come forward and contact the police. The allegations were made by ex-party chairman Sir Jake Berry, who wrote to the police last year accusing an unnamed MP of raping up to five victims. Questions are now being raised about what the Conservative Party knew and what actions were taken in response.
PM's Response
Speaking on a visit to Bacton Gas Terminal in Norfolk, PM Rishi Sunak acknowledged the seriousness of the anonymous allegations and highlighted that they may already be subject to a live police investigation. He emphasized that the Conservative Party has robust independent complaint procedures in place and encouraged anyone with information or evidence of criminal acts to contact the police.
Deputy PM Denies Cover-up
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden has denied allegations of a cover-up regarding sex attack claims during his tenure as party chairman. Responding to a bombshell letter by one of his successors, Dowden stated that any allegation of sexual misconduct is taken extremely seriously by the Conservative Party. He affirmed the party's zero tolerance policy towards sexual misconduct and highlighted the existence of an independent complaints mechanism that investigates all allegations.
Concerns of a Cover-up
Former Brexit Secretary David Davis has warned that if there was indeed a cover-up of rape claims, it would be a criminal offense in itself. The allegations came to light when ex-party chairman Sir Jake Berry discovered that one of the assault victims had received treatment at a private hospital, with the costs paid out of party funds. Berry's letter to the police, co-written with ex-Chief Whip Wendy Morton, alleged that up to five victims had been subjected to multiple rapes and that limited action had allowed the alleged perpetrator to continue offending.
Response to Hospital Payments
Regarding the payments for hospital treatment, Dowden stated that he did not authorize them and distanced himself from the matter.
