Lib Dems suspend Chris Rennard amid new inquiry into sexual harassment claims

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Geraldine McKelvieFebruary 7, 2026 at 01:03 PM

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Chris Rennard, a Liberal Democrat peer, has been suspended from the party amid a new investigation into allegations of sexual harassment. The Lib Dems cited flaws in a 2013 inquiry into claims made by four women against Rennard, a former party chief executive. Party leader Ed Davey believes Rennard should not be a member of the House of Lords. Rennard maintains that previous investigations found the allegations unprovable. Three of the original complainants welcomed the new inquiry as a sign of change, while the fourth had resigned from the party in 2014 citing the party's handling of the situation. The party has suspended Rennard's whip and membership while the new investigation proceeds.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Nick Clegg 40% Alistair Webster KC 40% Alison Smith 50% Alison Goldsworthy 50% Bridget Harris 50% Susan Gaszczak 50% House of Lords ×260% Ed Davey ×270% Liberal Democrats ×380% Chris Rennard ×790%

Keywords

sexual harassment allegations 100% chris rennard 90% lib dems 80% investigation 70% suspension 60% house of lords 50% misconduct 40%

Sentiment Analysis

Negative

Score: -0.30

Source Transparency

Source

The Guardian - World News

Political Lean

Center-Left (-0.40)

Far LeftCenterFar Right

Classification Confidence

90%

This article was automatically classified using rule-based analysis. The political bias score ranges from -1 (far left) to +1 (far right).

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sexual harassment allegations chris rennard lib dems investigation suspension house of lords misconduct

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