MP denies putting hand up women’s skirts

TORY MP Dan Poulter denies claims that he was a ‘lift lunger’ who stuck his hand up female MPs’ skirts.

Dr Poulter, a part-time NHS doctor and a former health minister, is under investigation by the party’s new harassment watchdog.

The 39-year-old was reported by fellow Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen in an article in a Sunday newspaper.

Mr Bridgen said three female MPs had told of their experiences with Dr Poulter in 2010. In at least one incident, Dr Poulter – who ‘specialises in obstetrics and gynaecology’, according to his entry in Who’s Who – allegedly put his hand up a skirt in a Commons lift.

Mr Bridgen said that none of the three wanted to make formal complaints, so he reported Dr Poulter himself.

Last night, Dr Poulter’s spokesman said: ‘Dr Poulter denies all allegations of misconduct or inappropriate behaviour and will vigorously defend himself against any such claims. The Sunday Times story is now in the hands of his lawyers.’

Mark Newton, chairman of Dr Poulter’s local Conservative Association, said: ‘I have got every confidence in Dan and I believe the entire association does as well.’

A No 10 spokesman said: ‘Following a conversation with him, the chief whip has referred Mr Poulter to the party’s new disciplinary committee.’