Tory MP David Warburton has whip withdrawn during harassment watchdog probe

David Warburton has been suspended as a Conservative MP while under investigation over allegations made to Parliament’s independent harassment watchdog

A Tory MP has had the party whip withdrawn while he is investigated by Parliament’s harassment watchdog.

David Warburton, the MP for Somerset and Frome, is suspended pending a probe by the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS).

The body was set up in 2018 to investigate allegations of misconduct in Parliament.

Pictures have since been published by the Times of Mr Warburton sitting next to an upturned baking tray with white powder on it.

The newspaper also reported claims of unwanted sexual comments and sexual touching had been reported to Parliamentary authorities.

But former music teacher Mr Warburton, 56, who is married with two young children, denied any wrongdoing.

He told the Telegraph: “I have enormous amounts of defence, but unfortunately the way that things work means that doesn’t come out first.

“I have heard nothing whatsoever from the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme. I’m sorry, I can’t comment any further.”

A spokesman for the Conservative Whips Office said: “David Warburton MP has had the Conservative Party whip removed while the investigation is ongoing.”

It means Mr Warburton will sit as an independent MP in the House of Commons.