Mike Hancock resigns the Liberal Democrat whip

A Liberal Democrat spokesperson has announced: "Mike Hancock has chosen to resign the party whip while he defends himself against very serious allegations in a High Court civil action.Mike Hancock strenuously denies the allegations made in the civil case and intends to clear his name in court."

Exchange of letters:

Mike Hancock to Alistair Carmichael.

Rt. Hon. Alistair Carmichael MP
Liberal Democrat Chief Whip
House of Commons
LONDON
SW1A 0AA 

3rd June 2013 

Following our meeting today I have decided to offer to temporarily withdraw from the parliamentary party in the Commons until the civil court case against me has been concluded. 

I can assure you that I will continue to vigorously defend my position and that I completely refute the allegations made against me. 

I'm doing this in the best interests of the party nationally and in Portsmouth and for my family. 

I will continue to work hard for my constituents in Portsmouth as I have always done. 

Mike Hancock MP

Alistair Carmichael to Mike Hancock:

Mike Hancock CBE MP
House of Commons
LONDON
SW1A 0AA 

3 June, 2013 

Thank you for your letter standing aside from your membership of the Parliamentary Liberal Democrat Party until you have cleared your name in the legal proceedings recently brought against you in the High Court.

These are very serious allegations and the party takes them very seriously. I realise that you have denied them consistently and continue to do so. If, at the end of your case, your name is cleared then I would fully expect to have you back in the parliamentary party to play again your role in the Commons. 

I have no doubt that you will continue to work hard for your constituents in Portsmouth South as you have always done. 

Rt. Hon. Alistair Carmichael MP
Liberal Democrat Chief Whip