Lib Dem peer quits frontbench role over harassment allegations

A Liberal Democrat peer has quit his frontbench role over allegations of sexual harassment.

Lord Lester of Herne Hill has also withdrawn from the party whip while an investigation is carried out into the claims by the House of Lords Commissioner for Standards.

The peer has told The Sun he adamantly denied the historic allegations and would "vigorously contest" them.

A Lib Dem spokesman said: "Anthony Lester has withdrawn himself as a spokesperson in the Lords and membership of the Liberal Democrat group in the Lords whilst the investigation by the House of Lords Standards Commissioner is ongoing."