Lib Dem member suspended after arrest over sexual assault claim

The Liberal Democrats have suspended a man from the party following an allegation of sexual assault during their annual conference in Brighton.

Sussex Police have confirmed a 57-year-old man from Bristol was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault in relation to an alleged incident at Brighton’s Grand Hotel in the early hours of Tuesday.

The Liberal Democrats’ “Glee Club” event, a highlight of the social calendar during their conference, was taking place at the hotel at the time.

A Lib Dem spokesperson said: “We are horrified this has happened, we assisted the police in identifying and arresting the suspect and have suspended him from the party.”

In a statement Sussex Police said: “We have arrested a 57-year-old man from Bristol on suspicion of sexual assault by touching in relation to an incident which took place at The Grand Hotel, Kings Road, Brighton.

“He remains in custody at this time.”