Decision and reaction
An independent panel has told Liberal Democrat peer Chris Rennard that the sexual harassment claim against him will not be reopened, ending prospects of a further internal inquiry into the matter. The ruling follows a review earlier this year that saw the party relaunch its investigation after questions were raised about the integrity of an earlier inquiry.
Party leader Ed Davey said he was "disappointed and upset" by the panel's conclusion. Rennard had been suspended from the party when the investigation was reopened amid allegations that the initial probe had been flawed.
Background
Chris Rennard, a longstanding figure within the Liberal Democrats, has been the subject of sexual harassment allegations that prompted internal party scrutiny. The decision by the independent panel means there will be no additional formal investigation into those specific claims under the party's procedures.
Implications for the party
The panel's ruling closes the formal avenue for reopening the complaint, but it is likely to maintain scrutiny within the party and among members of the public given the earlier contention over the first inquiry. Party officials have faced pressure in recent months to ensure their processes for handling misconduct allegations are robust and seen to be fair.
Next steps
With the panel declining to reopen the case, the immediate procedural chapter appears to be closed, though the party leadership's response and any potential further actions by individuals involved remain matters for the Liberal Democrats to determine. Ed Davey's expressed disappointment underlines the sensitivity of the issue for the party as it manages its internal disciplinary processes.