Labour MP Dan Norris arrested again over sexual offence allegations: What Police are investigating
MP Dan Norris arrested again over sexual offence allegations. Image: PA Media
Former Labour minister and independent MP Dan Norris has been arrested for a second time on suspicion of rape, sexual assault, voyeurism and upskirting, as police confirmed an expanding investigation into allegations spanning more than two decades.
Norris, 66, who currently represents North East Somerset and Hanham, was initially arrested in April 2025. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that he remains under conditional bail while inquiries continue. Norris has strongly denied all allegations, describing them as “entirely untrue”.
The latest arrest has intensified political and public scrutiny, particularly given Norris’s high-profile role in UK politics and his recent election victory over Jacob Rees-Mogg.
What Police Are Investigating
Avon and Somerset Police said the investigation began in December 2024 and involves alleged offences said to have occurred between the 2000s and 2020s.
In the most recent development, Norris was arrested on suspicion of:
- Raping one woman
- Raping a second woman
- Sexually assaulting another woman
- Voyeurism and upskirting involving multiple women
- Misconduct in a public office
Police confirmed they are no longer actively investigating allegations involving child sexual offences or child abduction, which were part of the initial inquiry. However, the rape and misconduct investigations remain ongoing.
A police spokesperson described the inquiry as “sensitive and complex”, stressing that such cases often take considerable time to conclude. Officers said alleged victims are being kept informed and offered ongoing support.
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Dan Norris Responds to Allegations
In a statement released through his legal representatives, Norris said:
“I vigorously and entirely deny the serious allegations made against me. They are untrue. I am challenging them through my legal representatives.”
Despite the seriousness of the claims, Norris has not been charged. Under UK law, he is entitled to the presumption of innocence while investigations continue.
Labour Party Suspension and Political Fallout
The Labour Party suspended Norris immediately after becoming aware of his first arrest in April 2025. He now sits in parliament as an independent MP.
A Labour spokesperson said the new allegations were “deeply concerning” but stressed the party could not comment further while police inquiries remain active.
Although suspended, Norris has refused to resign as an MP. He has not attended the House of Commons since his arrest but continues to vote by proxy.
A public petition calling for his resignation has surpassed 2,000 signatures, with critics arguing he can no longer fully represent his constituents.
Who Is Dan Norris?
Dan Norris was elected MP for North East Somerset and Hanham in July 2024, defeating Conservative heavyweight Jacob Rees-Mogg. He previously served as an MP from 1997 to 2010, representing Wansdyke.
Norris held junior ministerial roles under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown and later became the directly elected mayor of the West of England from 2021 to 2025. His mayoral term ended shortly before the latest developments, and he was replaced by Helen Godwin.
Following his arrest, Norris stepped down as chair of the League Against Cruel Sports, an animal welfare charity.
What Happens Next
Legal experts note that Norris would only lose his parliamentary seat if he were charged, convicted and sentenced to a prison term. For now, the investigation remains ongoing, with police urging the public not to speculate while inquiries continue.
The case represents one of the most serious investigations involving a sitting MP in recent years and continues to attract national attention.
FAQ
Who is Dan Norris?
Dan Norris is an independent MP for North East Somerset and Hanham and a former Labour minister and West of England mayor.
Why was Dan Norris arrested again?
He was arrested for a second time on suspicion of rape, sexual assault, voyeurism and upskirting as part of an ongoing police investigation.
Has Dan Norris been charged with any offence?
No. As of now, Norris has not been charged and remains under conditional bail.
What has Dan Norris said about the allegations?
Norris has said he “vigorously and entirely” denies all allegations and is challenging them through legal representatives.
Is Dan Norris still an MP?
Yes. Although suspended by Labour, Norris remains an MP and currently sits as an independent.
Are police still investigating child sexual offences?
Police confirmed they are no longer actively investigating child sexual offence allegations, but other serious investigations continue.
Could Dan Norris lose his seat in parliament?
He would only lose his seat if charged, convicted and sentenced to prison under UK parliamentary rules.