MP Mike Hancock bailed after assault complaint

Mike Hancock, the Liberal Democrat MP for Portsmouth South, has been arrested on suspicion of indecent assault following allegations of improper behaviour towards a female constituent.

In a statement on Mr Hancock's website, he said he went voluntarily to a police station and "co-operated fully". He was released on police bail without charge until 10 January.

A Hampshire Police spokesman said: "A man has been arrested on suspicion of indecent assault following a complaint from a woman in Portsmouth. The 64-year-old from the Fareham area was arrested at 10am on Tuesday. He was questioned by police following an allegation made on Friday 24 September."

Mr Hancock declined to comment on the details of the case, but has previously denied any wrongdoing and insisted he only offered "help and support" to the 36-year-old woman.

The Parliamentary Standards Commissioner, John Lyon, has received a complaint about the MP's behaviour.