Liberal Democrats Suspend Peer Chris Rennard Amid New Sexual Harassment Inquiry
The Liberal Democrat peer Chris Rennard has been suspended from the party membership and had the party whip withdrawn in the House of Lords, as a new investigation is launched into historical sexual harassment allegations. The party has stated that it received legal advice indicating that a 2013 inquiry into claims made by four women against Lord Rennard was "flawed in several respects".
Party Leadership's Stance and Rennard's Response
The current Lib Dem leader, Ed Davey, has expressed his belief that Rennard, aged 65, should not retain his position as a member of the House of Lords. Davey has further advocated for reforms to make it easier to expel peers for serious misconduct. In response, Rennard, a former chief executive of the Liberal Democrats who was awarded a life peerage in 1999, has pointed to previous investigations by police and independent lawyers. He maintains that these inquiries concluded the allegations against him could not be substantiated. Rennard has previously stated he was sorry if he had "inadvertently encroached" upon anyone's personal space.
Complainants' Reactions and Historical Context
Three of the women involved in the original 2013 claims—former deputy party chair Alison Goldsworthy, academic Alison Smith, and former Nick Clegg adviser Bridget Harris—issued a joint statement welcoming the suspension as "the first signs of change" by the party. They emphasised that their initial decision to speak out was motivated by a desire to ensure future generations of women could participate in politics safely, though they expressed disappointment at the prolonged timeline for a fair investigation. The fourth complainant, former councillor Susan Gaszczak, resigned from the Liberal Democrats in 2014 following the original inquiry, citing discomfort with the party's handling of the matter.
Details of the 2013 Investigation and Legal Advice
The 2013 review, conducted by senior lawyer Alistair Webster KC, concluded there was a less than 50% chance of proving the case against Rennard beyond reasonable doubt. However, Webster's statement noted there was "broadly credible" evidence of behaviour that violated the personal space and autonomy of the complainants. The Liberal Democrats have now received updated legal advice criticising this earlier investigation, prompting the new probe. A party spokesperson confirmed the suspension and investigation, reiterating Davey's position on Rennard's suitability for the Lords.
Rennard's Defence and Previous Investigations
In his defence, Rennard highlighted that the Metropolitan Police Service conducted a thorough investigation in 2013, which did not result in any charges or further action. He also referenced the independent legal review by Alistair Webster KC, which found insufficient evidence for a disciplinary hearing, and a subsequent investigation that concluded no grounds for disciplinary action existed. Rennard asserts that these findings were accepted by the party in 2014, marking the end of prior disciplinary proceedings.
