Chris Pincher seeks ‘professional medical assistance’ after groping allegations | Political news
Chris Pincher, who lost his Conservative whip after being accused of groping two men, said he is seeking “professional medical assistance” as he hopes to return to his duties with as an MP “as soon as possible”.
In a statement by MP Tamworth, Mr Pincher said he “respects” the prime minister’s decision to suspend the whipping, adding that he will “cooperate fully” with the investigation into his conduct. .
“I respect the prime minister’s decision to suspend the whipping while the investigation is underway and I will fully cooperate with it,” he added.
“As I told the Prime Minister, I drank too much on Wednesday night, putting myself and others to shame and I am truly sorry for the discomfort I have caused.
“The stresses of the past few days, on top of those of the past few months, have led me to accept that I would benefit from professional medical assistance.
“I’m in the process of finding that right now and I hope to be able to return to my electoral duties as soon as possible.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson faces pressure about the delay in suspending the Tory whip from Mr Pincher.
He stepped down as Tory deputy director when there were allegations of unwanted touching at the Carlton Club in London on Thursday.
He will now sit as an independent in the Commons but remain an MP for Tamworth in Staffordshire – despite critics insisting his position is unattainable and demanding a by-election .