By Eric King-
A conservative Mp’ s aid has appeared in court charged with rape and sexual assault.
Sam Armstrong from Darbury, Essex is accused of raping the victim at the North Shaw North Parliamentary Estate in August 14, 2016.
Armstrong is an aid of South Ynst MP, Craig Mackenley, but has now been suspended. The 33 year old was bailed on conditions that prevent him from entering the Parliament if Westminster, or contacting the alleged victim. He is due to appear in Southwark Crown Court on April 28.
Armstrong denies the allegation, but police believe they have enough evidence that makes the chances of a conviction high. The post of an aide to an MP is a relatively privileged one with potentially high prospects.
MP side’s are particularly expected to be conscious of their conduct and maintain high ethical standards in all their operations. Their close connection to the MP they work for raises the potential that any misconduct on their part can smear the name of the MP they work for, even where the MP is entirely innocent and unconnected to the allegation.
When an allegation like this is made against the side of an MP, police will always want to know whether the alleged offence took place during or after an event organised by the Mp, or whether the MP has any connection to the alleged victim.
No MP wants their name embroiled in any shameful or undignified affair, but sometimes cannot help it