Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden has refuted claims that the Conservative Party concealed rape allegations against one of its MPs.
The issue surfaced after Sir Jake Berry, ex-chairman of the Tory party, reportedly informed police about the allegations and mentioned that the party was funding support for one of the alleged victims.
Dowden, who served as party chairman prior to Sir Jake, stated he did not recognize the cover-up claims and denied any concealment during his tenure.
The controversy follows a letter by Sir Jake and former chief whip Wendy Morton to the police, citing concerns over the party's handling of the situation and suggesting the accused MP had multiple victims. The Conservative Party has chosen not to comment on the matter.