The Conservative MP Mark Pritchard has called for a review of laws that grant anonymity to sexual assault complainants after Scotland Yard said that he would face no further action over a rape allegation.
Pritchard, the MP for The Wrekin, in Shropshire, attacked what he described as the “vindictive and outrageous story” that led to his high-profile arrest on 2 December. Detectives have dropped the investigation because of insufficient evidence.
Outside the House of Commons, Pritchard told reporters: “Sadly, as an MP, sometimes you have a target on your back. Of course, she remains anonymous. The law on anonymity does need to be reviewed and fairness does need to play a far greater role in these cases.”
His accuser’s identity is protected for life under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.
