A report into groping allegations against MP Chris Pincher is due to be published on Thursday – and he could face a significant suspension.
Parliament’s watchdog launched an investigation into Mr Pincher, a former deputy chief whip, in October over “actions causing significant damage to the reputation of the House as a whole, or of its members generally”.
Mr Pincher could face a very significant suspension – potentially up to six weeks – after the report is published, Sky News understands.
If the standards committee report finds in favour of a suspension of more than 10 days, then a by-election could take place in Mr Pincher’s Tamworth constituency – adding to the three Rishi Sunak is already facing in Uxbridge and South Ruislip, Selby and Ainsty, and Somerton and Frome on 20 July.
Mr Pincher, who sits as an independent MP in the Commons following his suspension from the Conservative Party, has already confirmed that he will stand down at the next election.
However, a potential suspension – which would have to be approved by MPs – could force him out before then if 10% of voters in his constituency sign a recall petition.
Mr Pincher quit his government role in June last year after he was accused of assaulting two fellow guests at the exclusive Carlton Club in London.
Mr Pincher was accused of groping two men in a private members club and apologised for “drinking far too much” and embarrassing “himself and other people”.
Shortly after his resignation, it emerged Mr Pincher had been investigated for his conduct in 2019 and that Boris Johnson – who was prime minister at the time – had been told about the probe prior to appointing him as deputy chief whip.
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The then prime minister later acknowledged he had been informed of inappropriate behaviour dating back three years, but suggested he had forgotten.
Mr Johnson’s handling of the affair played a significant role in a number of his ministers losing confidence in him, eventually triggering his resignation as prime minister.
A year ago today, Sajid Javid resigned as health secretary and Mr Sunak as chancellor, kickstarting a wave of resignations that culminated in Mr Johnson’s demise.
