Labour rebel to fight harassment claim

A LABOUR MP has hit back at allegations that he sexually harassed a female aide.

John Woodcock, 39, who is known as a fierce critic of Jeremy Corbyn, faces a disciplinary hearing later this year. He said he will contest claims he breached the party’s policy on sexual harassment by sending inappropriate texts and emails.

it was reported yesterday that the messages were sent between 2014 and 2016. Mr Woodcock said: ‘i was made aware in December last year that a complaint made against me was being referred to labour’s national constitutional committee as a potential breach of the party’s policy on sexual harassment. i do not accept this but know the complaint must be thoroughly and fairly investigated.’

it is alleged the MP for Barrow and Furness sent inappropriate texts and emails to an ex-aide who worked for him for two years, according to the Sunday Mirror.

it is said the woman felt uncomfortable and left her job. She claims Mr Woodcock continued to contact her even after she had quit. in November 2017, at a meeting of labour’s National executive Committee, it was deemed the complaint was substantial enough to be referred to the party’s constitutional committee.

late last year the release of an unverified dossier of Conservative MPs accused of sexual misconduct sent shockwaves through Westminster. Michael Fallon was forced to resign as defence secretary and Damian Green had to step down as de facto deputy premier.