Two charges of indecent assault, five of sexual assault and one of rape. Here is the CPS statement:
“Following an investigation by Lancashire police, the Crown Prosecution Service has received a file of evidence in the case of Mr Nigel Evans MP which concerns allegations of a sexual nature.
“After careful consideration, we have concluded that there is sufficient evidence and that it is in the public interest to prosecute Mr Evans. Lancashire Constabulary has therefore been authorised to charge two counts of indecent assault, five counts of sexual assault and one count of rape relating to a total of seven alleged victims.
“The decision in this case was taken by Joanne Cunliffe, an experienced specialist rape prosecutor, in consultation with John Dilworth, Head of the CPS North West Complex Casework Unit and in consultation with an external and highly experienced criminal QC. I have also been consulted on this case. The decision has been taken in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors and the CPS legal guidance on rape and sexual offences.
“Mr Evans will appear before Preston Magistrates’ Court on 18 September 2013.
“Can I remind all concerned that criminal proceedings are now active. All defendants have the right to a fair trial and it is very important that nothing is said, or reported, which could prejudice this trial.”
He has now resigned as Deputy Speaker…
He lied and lied and lied again.
Downing Street tells the Sun Dave has needed glasses since the summer. Today is the first time he has worn them out. One way of distracting everyone from his answers to the Liaison Committee…
Via @tara_mulholland.
Michael Le Vell not guilty on all charges. It's bloody ridiculous a mans life & reputation can be so comprehensively trashed in this way
— Phillip Schofield (@Schofe) September 10, 2013
This would be the same Phillip Schofield who cost ITV £125,000 in damages after smearing Lord McAlpine as a nonce…
Michael Le Vell not guilty of all charges.
— Media Guido (@MediaGuido) September 10, 2013
Free for his next role…
… To give her expert opinion on whether or not we should leave the EU:
“We should not even be contemplating leaving Europe. We should be in there influencing. If we leave we will not be able to do that. It is still the City that attracts the vast majority of foreign financial institutions which want to deal from here to Europe. Why would the City be better off outside the EU?”
She never had the best track record for making sensible decisions. Presumably she’ll be on Newsnight this evening too…
