Former MP questioned by Staffordshire Police over historical sex abuse claims

Updated

A former MP has confirmed he was questioned by police investigating allegations of historical sexual abuse, which he denies.

The 55-year-old was interviewed under caution by Staffordshire Police who are investigating allegations by a woman named Esther Baker that she was sexually abused as a girl while uniformed police officers stood guard.

The ex-MP, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that his interview followed a public campaign by Labour MPs for police action over Ms Baker's claims.

Ms Baker, who waived her right to anonymity, claimed in an interview with Sky News in May that police were present on occasions when she was abused in the 1980s and 90s, and that a politician also abused her.

She said she decided to speak about her experiences in the hope of finding other victims or the police officers who were involved.

The former MP said: "My children are the victim of this latest witch-hunt by Labour MPs who have no concern about the effects of their campaign on real people."

He added: "I am not critical of the police. The police have got to investigate. They are put in a very difficult situation.

"The issue is public campaigning when what we have are unproven allegations. Two Labour MPs have been campaigning to get a prosecution while the police are investigating. It is an attempt to pervert the course of justice. They don't stop to think that what they are campaigning about might not be true."

The politician said there was "not a shred of truth" in accusations made against him.

A Staffordshire Police spokesman said: "On Monday October 12 2015 a 55-year-old male was questioned by detectives as part of an ongoing investigation into non-current sexual abuse.

"It is the policy of Staffordshire Police never to confirm in any way the identity or any other personal details of those subject to any investigation until charge."

The man was not arrested but was questioned under caution, police added.

During the early stages of the investigation in May, Jon Drake, Assistant Chief Constable at Staffordshire Police, urged anyone with information to come forward.

He said: "To be clear, regardless of role, anyone who has been involved in criminal offences will be investigated to provide justice for the victim.

"'We are keen to hear from anyone who knows more about the allegations, or any other victim of child sexual abuse, and they can contact the police through 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."

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