Peer quits front bench following sex allegations

A Liberal Democrat peer has quit his front bench role following allegations of sexual harassment.

Lord Lester of Herne Hill has also withdrawn from the party whip while an investigation is carried out.

The peer, 81, a prominent QC, told The Sun he adamantly denied the historic allegations and would “vigorously contest” them.

A Liberal Democrat spokesman said: “Anthony Lester has withdrawn himself as a spokesman in the Lords and membership of the Liberal Democrat group in the Lords whilst the investigation by the House of Lords Standards Commissioner is ongoing.”