Tory MP Patrick Mercer Resigns over Lobbying Claims

Houses of Parliament. Photograh by Peter Broster

Conservative MP Patrick Mercer has resigned the Tory whip and has said he will not stand for re-election to “save my party embarrassment” over allegations that he had broken lobbying rules.

The claims come from a BBC Panorama programme that is yet to air, but which the BBC has said will be broadcast “as soon as possible”. On being investigated for the programme the Newark MP has referred himself to the Parliamentary standards commissioner and has taken “legal advice” over the allegations. In a statement he said:

“I am taking legal advice about these allegations – and I have referred myself to the Parliamentary commissioner for standards. In the meantime, to save my party embarrassment, I have resigned the Conservative Whip and have so informed Sir George Young…”I have also decided not to stand at the next general election.”