Lib Dem MP arrested on suspicion of assault and coercion

A Liberal Democrat MP has been arrested on suspicion of assault and controlling and coercive behaviour, Gloucestershire Police have confirmed. The man, in his 40s and from Tewkesbury, was taken into custody on Wednesday, interviewed, and later released on police bail. The Liberal Democrats swiftly suspended the whip from Tewkesbury MP Cameron Thomas pending the outcome of the police investigation. A party spokesperson said: “Allegations of this nature are extremely serious, and it is important that the police are able to investigate properly. We are unable to comment further while the police investigation is ongoing.” Thomas, 43, a former RAF officer who has represented Tewkesbury since the 2024 general election, continues to sit as an independent MP. However, the BBC understands his parliamentary access has been temporarily revoked. Separately, police have begun a murder investigation after a 17-year-old boy was stabbed in south London.