Police have arrested an independent member of Parliament for a second time over multiple alleged sexual offenses.
Dan Norris, 66, a former Labour MP and ex–West of England mayor, is under investigation over a series of allegations. These include the suspected rape of two women, the sexual assault of another woman, as well as claims of voyeurism and upskirting. All allegations remain unproven.
Officers first arrested Norris in April 2025 in connection with several sexual offence claims. These included allegations involving a child, an abduction claim, and the suspected rape of a woman. Police later said they stopped investigating the child-related allegations and the abduction claim.
The remaining allegations relate to incidents said to have taken place between the early 2000s and the 2020s.
Norris has strongly denied the accusations. In a statement, he said the claims were “entirely untrue” and said his legal team is challenging them.
Police are also investigating Norris over alleged misconduct in public office. He remains on conditional police bail while inquiries continue.
Voters elected Norris as Labour MP for North East Somerset and Hanham in July 2024, when he defeated Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg. Labour said it suspended him immediately after learning of his arrest earlier this year.
Norris has refused to resign and now sits as an independent MP. He has not returned to the House of Commons since his arrest but continues to vote by proxy.
More than 2,000 people have signed a petition calling for his resignation. Supporters of the petition say he can no longer properly represent his constituency. Norris has said he continues to handle casework and follow local and national issues.
Under parliamentary rules, an MP only loses their seat if a court charges them, secures a conviction, and imposes a prison sentence.
Norris stepped down as West of England mayor in May 2025. Helen Godwin replaced him in the role. She said she could not comment on an ongoing police investigation but acknowledged the distress caused by the news.
Avon and Somerset Police said officers began the investigation in December 2024. The force described the case as complex.
A police spokesperson said sexual offense investigations often take time. “We are keeping victims informed and ensuring they receive appropriate support,” the spokesperson added.
Police also asked the public to avoid speculation while inquiries continue.
