Portsmouth MP denies 'inappropriate behaviour' claims

Mike Hancock MP offered "help and support" to the woman, a spokesman said

A Liberal Democrat MP has strongly denied newspaper allegations about "inappropriate behaviour" towards a female constituent.

Mike Hancock, member for Portsmouth South, said all he did was offer help and support to the woman.

Police said they were making inquiries after being contacted on Friday by a woman.

A spokesman for the Lib Dem MP said Mr Hancock had not been informed of any formal investigation.

He added that the MP would co-operate fully with police if contacted.

"Mike Hancock denies any allegations of any inappropriate behaviour and in no circumstances did any take place.

"All Mike Hancock did was offer help and support to this woman," the spokesman added.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "Information regarding the welfare of a female from the Portsmouth area was passed to us by a third party on 5 August this year.

"No offences were disclosed to us at the time, but the information remained on file.

"We have received contact [on Friday, 24 September] from a female in relation to the matter and inquiries are now in hand."