A Conservative MP, Patrick Spencer, will stand trial in July 2026 over sexual assault accusations involving two women. Patrick Spencer, 37, denies the charges linked to an incident at a London private members’ club.
Spencer, the MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, appeared at Southwark Crown Court on Monday. Judge Tony Baumgartner scheduled the trial to begin on July 13, 2026. The hearing is expected to last one week, and Patrick Spencer will confront the charges then.
Prosecutors allege the assaults occurred on August 12, 2023, at The Groucho Club in Soho. Significantly, this was before Spencer’s election to Parliament. After a complaint was made, police investigated and later charged him in May.
The allegations have sparked debate over accountability for sitting MPs facing serious criminal charges. Some constituents have called for Spencer’s resignation, while others argue he deserves due process. Political analysts suggest the prolonged timeline—with the trial occurring after the next general election—could complicate both his legal and political future. A conviction would trigger an automatic recall petition, potentially forcing a by-election in his constituency.
Following the charges, the Conservative Party suspended Spencer, who now sits as an independent MP. Patrick Spencer has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty during the pre-trial hearing. The court granted him unconditional bail.
With the trial nearly two years away, legal preparations will continue. Meanwhile, Spencer remains in office but without party affiliation. The case has drawn significant attention, given his political position.
The prosecution previously outlined details in magistrates’ court. Barrister Polly Dyer stated the allegations involve two separate assaults on the same day. Police interviewed Spencer earlier this year before proceeding with charges, further questioning Patrick Spencer as part of their inquiry.
As the legal process unfolds, further developments will shape the case ahead of the 2026 trial.
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