Congressman faces quiz over missing girl

Police hunting the missing Washington intern Chandra Levy want a third interview with US Congressman Gary Condit, they said yesterday.

Officers said they needed more clarification of his relationship with the 24-year-old, as it could help explain the young woman's state of mind.

Soon after Miss Levy disappeared almost 10 weeks ago it emerged she had some sort of relationship with the House Representative from California. He insisted they were just "good friends" but earlier this week, Miss Levy's aunt, Linda Zamsky, revealed that her niece had told her they were having an affair.

Ms Zamsky said: "From my many conversations with her, it was clear, without a doubt, that they were involved in an intimate relationship." She added: "We believe Representative Condit's lack of candour is hindering efforts to find Chandra." Police, who insist they are treating the matter as a missing persons case, not a criminal inquiry, have already spoken to Mr Condit on two occasions, as well as interviewing his wife.

Terrance Gainer, Washington's assistant police chief, told The Washington Post, they expected to interview the 53-year-old again. He said: "We need more clarity in his relationship with Chandra and anything else he and others can add to her state of mind and lifestyle."

Mr Condit said he and his wife had already co-operated with the police and FBI. Their spokesman added: "Their willingness to do this with police investigators should not be confused with their decision not to fuel an already out of control media frenzy."