Lib Dem peer Lord Lester quits after sexual harassment claims emerge
Lord Lester of Herne Hill, a well-known QC and Lib Dem peer, says he will "vigorously contest" the historical claims.
Wednesday 21 February 2018 09:03, UK
A Liberal Democrat peer has left his frontbench role after sexual harassment allegations emerged.
Lord Lester of Herne Hill told The Sun he adamantly denied the historical allegations and would "vigorously contest" them.
As well as quitting his role on the Lib Dem frontbench, the 81-year-old has withdrawn from the party whip while the House of Lords commissioner for standards investigates the claims.
A Lib Dem spokesman said: "Anthony Lester has withdrawn himself as a spokesperson in the Lords and membership of the Liberal Democrat group in the Lords whilst the investigation is ongoing."
The well-known QC was the party's human rights spokesman.
The commissioner for standards says an investigation is under way into an "alleged breach of the code in relation to personal honour".
It is has been reported that the allegations relate to inappropriate behaviour a number of years ago.
A spokesman for Lord Lester told The Sun: "Lord Lester has a long and distinguished record as a champion of human rights and sex equality and has a right to be treated fairly and under due process.
"He will vigorously contest the allegation."