Former Labour MP Denies Sexual Assault Allegations in Court
Former Member of Parliament Conor McGinn has appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court to formally deny charges of sexually assaulting a woman during a night out in 2022. The 41-year-old ex-politician, who represented St Helens North for nine years, pleaded not guilty to a single count of sexual assault during a brief hearing on Friday.
Details of the Alleged Incident
Prosecutor Colin Witcher outlined the case against McGinn, stating the alleged offence occurred in July 2022 when the former MP was "out socialising with the complainant and others." According to the prosecution, McGinn was "in drink" when he allegedly approached the woman and began kissing her without consent.
"She said no and attempted to push him away, saying stop, pointing out he is married," Mr Witcher told the court. The prosecutor further alleged that McGinn proceeded to "grope" the woman over her clothing in both the breast and crotch areas, with similar behaviour continuing outside the venue.
Legal Proceedings and Trial Date
Deputy Chief Magistrate Tan Ikram presided over the hearing, where McGinn's defence barrister Orla Daly stated her client "vehemently denies" the allegations. The judge ordered McGinn to stand trial over three days beginning November 16, with the proceedings to take place in the magistrates' court rather than before a jury.
McGinn, who confirmed his identity and entered his plea during the 15-minute hearing, was granted unconditional bail until the trial commences. The former MP currently resides in a Lambeth apartment block overlooking the River Thames in south London.
Political Context and Background
The court heard that the incident was initially investigated internally by the Labour Party before being reported to the Metropolitan Police. McGinn had been suspended by the party in 2022 following the complaint against him.
First elected in 2015, McGinn served as an opposition whip and Labour's deputy national campaign co-ordinator during his parliamentary career. He announced in 2023 that he would not seek re-election, effectively ending his nine-year tenure as MP for St Helens North in Merseyside.
The case represents a significant development in what has been a challenging period for the former politician, whose career in Westminster has been overshadowed by these serious allegations. The three-day trial in November will determine the outcome of the sexual assault charge that McGinn continues to dispute.
