Labour MP Dan Norris Arrested for Second Rape Allegation

In a shocking development that has sent ripples through Westminster, suspended Labour MP Dan Norris has been arrested on suspicion of a second rape, alongside additional sexual assault and upskirting offences. The 65-year-old politician, representing North East Somerset and Hanham, was taken into custody by Avon and Somerset Police on Monday, February 2, 2026. This marks a dramatic escalation in a scandal that first surfaced last year, raising serious questions about accountability in British politics.

Background on Dan Norris and the Initial Allegations

Dan Norris, a veteran Labour figure, entered Parliament in 1997 as MP for Wansdyke, before returning in 2024 for the redrawn North East Somerset and Hanham constituency. Known for his environmental advocacy and roles in rural affairs, Norris's career took a dark turn in 2025 when he was first suspended from the Labour Party following allegations of sexual misconduct.

The initial complaint involved claims of rape and sexual assault dating back to the early 2000s, allegedly occurring during his time as a government minister. Norris vehemently denied the accusations, calling them 'politically motivated.' However, the Labour whip was withdrawn pending investigation, sidelining him from party activities. At the time, sources close to the party described the move as 'precautionary,' but the fresh arrest suggests deeper issues at play.

Details of the New Charges

According to reports from The Telegraph and The Independent, Norris was detained in the early hours of February 2 at his Somerset home. Police sources indicate the new allegations stem from a separate incident, potentially involving upskirting—a non-consensual act of taking images up clothing, criminalized in the UK since 2019. The victim, whose identity remains protected, is believed to be an adult woman who came forward recently.

Avon and Somerset Police confirmed the arrest in a brief statement: 'A 65-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape, sexual assault, and voyeurism offences. He remains in custody as enquiries continue.' While no names were officially released, multiple outlets have linked the suspect directly to Norris, citing high-level sources.

This second allegation compounds the gravity of the situation. Legal experts note that if charges proceed, Norris could face life imprisonment for the rape count alone, with sexual assault carrying up to 10 years. Upskirting, though less severe, adds to the pattern of alleged predatory behavior.

Political Fallout and Labour Party Response

The news has ignited fury across the political spectrum. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, already under pressure from internal divisions, issued a statement emphasizing zero tolerance for such allegations: 'These are extremely serious matters. The party fully supports the police investigation and will not interfere. Justice must take its course.'

Conservative MPs have seized on the scandal to criticize Labour's vetting processes. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp remarked, 'This is yet another blow to public trust in our institutions. How many more scandals before real reform?' Within Labour ranks, whispers of a leadership challenge grow louder, with some backbenchers calling for Norris's immediate expulsion from the party, suspended or not.

Norris's local constituents in North East Somerset are reeling. The constituency, a bellwether seat that flipped Labour in 2024, now faces a potential by-election if charges stick. Community leaders have expressed dismay, with one resident telling BBC News, 'Dan was seen as a champion for rural issues. This betrayal is heartbreaking.'

Timeline of Events

• 1997: Dan Norris first elected as MP for Wansdyke.
• 2005-2007: Serves as Parliamentary Under-Secretary in the Rural Affairs department.
• 2024: Re-elected for North East Somerset and Hanham.
• July 2025: First suspension following initial rape allegations.
• February 2, 2026: Arrested on new charges; remains in custody.

This timeline underscores a career marred by controversy in its twilight years. Norris, who has held various shadow roles, was once tipped for higher office. Now, his legacy hangs in the balance.

Broader Implications for UK Politics and Society

The arrest of Dan Norris is more than an isolated incident; it highlights systemic challenges in addressing sexual misconduct among elected officials. Since the #MeToo movement gained traction in the UK, several MPs have faced similar scrutiny, from the disgraced former Conservative minister Imran Ahmad Khan, convicted of sexual assault in 2022, to ongoing probes into historical abuses.

Campaigners like those from the End Violence Against Women Coalition have praised the police action but urged faster parliamentary reforms. 'We need mandatory training and independent oversight,' said CEO Andrea Simon. 'Too often, power shields perpetrators.'

Public reaction, fueled by trending searches exceeding 2,000 in the UK, reflects widespread concern. Social media is abuzz with hashtags like #DanNorris and #MPAccountability, demanding transparency. As the investigation unfolds, questions linger: Will this prompt a reckoning in Westminster, or fade into another forgotten scandal?

Norris is scheduled for questioning throughout the day, with no bail application expected soon. Avon and Somerset Police encourage anyone with information to come forward, underscoring the investigation's ongoing nature. For now, the MP's political future appears dim, casting a long shadow over Labour's governance ambitions.

This article will be updated as new details emerge. Everythiiing.com remains committed to factual, unbiased reporting on UK news.