A Conservative MP has pleaded not guilty after being charged with two counts of sexual assault. Patrick Spencer, who now sits as an independent, denies sexual assault charges stemming from alleged incidents at London’s Groucho Club in 2023.
Patrick Spencer, 37, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. The MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich confirmed his name and date of birth but denied the allegations.
Prosecutor Polly Dyer outlined the accusations, claiming Spencer approached two women at the private members’ club on 12 August 2023. The court heard he allegedly touched both women inappropriately after making them feel uncomfortable. District Judge Paul Goldspring granted Spencer unconditional bail. His next hearing is set for 14 July at Southwark Crown Court.
According to prosecutors:
- Spencer allegedly insisted on buying one woman a drink and asked intrusive questions.
- He then reportedly cupped her breasts over her clothing.
- A second woman gave a similar account, saying he touched her without consent.
Both women reported the incidents to the Groucho Club, which later alerted police.
The Conservative Party suspended Spencer in May, removing the whip and forcing him to sit as an independent. He was elected in July 2024, months after the alleged offences. A CPS spokesperson confirmed the charges followed a “review of evidence” from the Metropolitan Police.
Spencer maintains his innocence, pleaded not guilty. The case will proceed to a plea and trial preparation hearing in July. If convicted, he could face jail time and lose his parliamentary seat.
For more political updates, visit London Pulse News.
