MP arrested over more alleged sexual offences

An independent MP has been arrested for a second time on suspicion of a string of sexual offences.

Former Labour MP Dan Norris, 66, remains under investigation over alleged rape of a woman and has been further arrested on suspicion of raping a second woman, sexually assaulting a third woman, voyeurism, and upskirting a number of women.

The former West of England Mayor was first arrested in April 2025 on suspicion of sexual offences against a girl, child abduction, and the rape of a woman. Police are no longer investigating the alleged child sexual offences or abduction.

All the offences are alleged to have occurred between the 2000s and 2020s.

Norris is also being investigated over alleged misconduct in a public office. He remains on conditional bail.

He was elected as a Labour MP for North East Somerset and Hanham in July 2024, defeating Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg.

The Labour Party said it immediately suspended Norris when it was made aware of his arrest in April.

Despite his suspension, Norris has refused to step down from his position as an MP.

He is now sitting as an independent but has not attended the House of Commons since his arrest. He is still able to vote by proxy.

A petition claiming Norris cannot fully support his constituency and demanding his resignation has reached more than 2,000 signatures.

Norris previously said in a statement that he continued to represent his constituents, stayed across local and national developments, handled casework, policy queries and parliamentary questions.

He would only lose his position as an MP if he was charged, convicted and jailed.

Norris' term as the West of England mayor came to an end in May 2025, when he was replaced by Helen Godwin.

Police said their investigation began in December 2024.

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: "Investigations into sexual offences are sensitive and complex and as a result it can take a significant amount of time for enquiries to be completed.

"We're keeping victims updated on any developments and we'll continue to give access to any support they may need.

"We'd respectfully ask people not to speculate on the circumstances so our enquiries can continue unhindered."

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