Liberal Democrat Peer Suspended Following Historic Harassment Allegations
A prominent Liberal Democrat peer has been suspended from the party after renewed scrutiny of historic sexual harassment claims. Lord Chris Rennard, the party's former chief executive, had the whip suspended on Friday over allegations that he inappropriately touched several women in 2013.
Investigation and Legal Review Prompt Action
The 65-year-old peer was initially investigated over these claims in 2014, with a subsequent report finding the women's complaints were 'broadly credible'. However, the Metropolitan Police decided at the time that there was insufficient evidence to pursue a criminal case, allowing Lord Rennard to remain within the party.
Lord Rennard has consistently denied the allegations, though he previously apologised if he had 'inadvertently encroached' on the women's personal space. The suspension comes after the Liberal Democrats received new legal advice indicating that the 2013 investigation was flawed in several key respects.
Party Leadership Takes Firm Stance
A party spokesperson confirmed the suspension, stating: 'Rennard has had the Liberal Democrat whip suspended in the House of Lords and the party is conducting a new investigation into these allegations.' The spokesperson added that Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has made clear his belief that Lord Rennard should not be a member of the House of Lords.
Sir Ed reportedly received contact this week from one of Lord Rennard's alleged victims, who urged him to apply the same standards he had previously advocated when calling for Lord Mandelson's removal from the Lords. This development appears to have influenced the party's decision to revisit the case.
Calls for Reform in the House of Lords
The party's statement also highlighted broader concerns about accountability in the upper chamber. 'Ed Davey has made clear he believes Rennard should not be a member of the House of Lords and that it should be made easier for peers to be expelled from the Lords for serious misconduct,' the spokesperson emphasised.
The Liberal Democrats are now conducting a fresh investigation into the allegations, marking a significant development in a case that has lingered for over a decade. The Daily Mail has contacted Lord Rennard for comment regarding his suspension and the new investigation.
