Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans has today (Wednesday) made a statement to the House of Commons explaining his decision to stand down as deputy speaker after being charged with sex offences.
In a statement to MPs, the 55-year-old vowed to “robustly defend” his innocence after being charged with offences including sexual assault, indecent assault and rape.
Mr Evans, who last night resigned as Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons, explained that he will continue to represent his constituents as an independent MP.
He added: “I’m proud to serve the people of the Ribble Valley and the best tribute that I can give them now is to get on with the job they sent me here to do.”