Labour Suspends MP Dan Norris Following Arrest on Sexual Offences
The North East Somerset representative faces allegations including rape and child sex offences as police investigation unfolds.
The Labour Party has suspended MP Dan Norris, aged 65, after his arrest on suspicion of multiple sexual offences, including rape and child abuse.
The suspension, confirmed on Saturday, follows his detention by Avon and Somerset Police on Friday at his constituency home, where officers executed a search warrant.
Norris, who represents North East Somerset and Hanham, has lost the Labour whip in the House of Commons.
The arrest is tied to allegations involving non-recent child sex offences referred to police from another force in December 2024. Many of these allegations date back to the 2000s, but there is also an investigation into a reported rape incident from the 2020s.
Police state that the investigation is led by Operation Bluestone, a dedicated team focusing on rape and serious sexual assault cases.
A spokesperson for the police noted, 'A man in his sixties was arrested on suspicion of sexual offences against a girl under the Sexual Offences Act 1956, rape under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, child abduction, and misconduct in a public office.' Following his arrest, Norris was released on conditional bail as inquiries continue.
The police emphasized the sensitivity and ongoing nature of the investigation, appealing to the public to refrain from speculation to ensure their efforts remain unhindered.
Additionally, they confirmed that the alleged victim is receiving necessary support and specialist help.
In light of these allegations, a spokesperson from the Labour Party stated that Norris was immediately suspended upon notification of his arrest, but noted that further comments would be withheld pending the outcome of the police inquiry.
Norris previously served as the member of Parliament for Wansdyke from 1997 to 2010 and has been the West of England mayor since 2021. He was re-elected in the 2024 general election, where he notably defeated incumbent Jacob Rees-Mogg.
Alongside his political positions, Norris has also served as the chair for the League Against Cruel Sports, stepping down from that role amid controversy related to allegations of victimization of a former employee.
Prior to his political career, Norris trained with the NSPCC and worked as a teacher and child protection officer.
The situation has drawn significant media attention, especially following initial reports of the arrest in various outlets.
As the police investigation progresses, further statements and developments are expected.
The suspension, confirmed on Saturday, follows his detention by Avon and Somerset Police on Friday at his constituency home, where officers executed a search warrant.
Norris, who represents North East Somerset and Hanham, has lost the Labour whip in the House of Commons.
The arrest is tied to allegations involving non-recent child sex offences referred to police from another force in December 2024. Many of these allegations date back to the 2000s, but there is also an investigation into a reported rape incident from the 2020s.
Police state that the investigation is led by Operation Bluestone, a dedicated team focusing on rape and serious sexual assault cases.
A spokesperson for the police noted, 'A man in his sixties was arrested on suspicion of sexual offences against a girl under the Sexual Offences Act 1956, rape under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, child abduction, and misconduct in a public office.' Following his arrest, Norris was released on conditional bail as inquiries continue.
The police emphasized the sensitivity and ongoing nature of the investigation, appealing to the public to refrain from speculation to ensure their efforts remain unhindered.
Additionally, they confirmed that the alleged victim is receiving necessary support and specialist help.
In light of these allegations, a spokesperson from the Labour Party stated that Norris was immediately suspended upon notification of his arrest, but noted that further comments would be withheld pending the outcome of the police inquiry.
Norris previously served as the member of Parliament for Wansdyke from 1997 to 2010 and has been the West of England mayor since 2021. He was re-elected in the 2024 general election, where he notably defeated incumbent Jacob Rees-Mogg.
Alongside his political positions, Norris has also served as the chair for the League Against Cruel Sports, stepping down from that role amid controversy related to allegations of victimization of a former employee.
Prior to his political career, Norris trained with the NSPCC and worked as a teacher and child protection officer.
The situation has drawn significant media attention, especially following initial reports of the arrest in various outlets.
As the police investigation progresses, further statements and developments are expected.
