Tory MP apologises for statement saying Harvey Weinstein sex assault allegations 'beggar belief'
2 min read
A Conservative MP was today forced to apologise after a statement from his office quoted him dismissing claims of sexual assault against Hollywood bigwig Harvey Weinstein.
A statement from Sir David Amess which found its way into the press earlier today branded the multiple claims by women who were connected to the movie mogul “dubious”.
But this afternoon the Southend West MP issued a fresh statement saying he had not “seen or authorised” the previous comments and was “horrified” by them.
Mr Weinstein stands accused of multiple sexual assaults and one incident of rape – although he denies all the allegations. Police in the UK and the US have launched investigations.
According to the Basildon, Canvey and Southend Echo, Mr Amess had said: "The recent revelations that countless starlets have apparently been assaulted by movie mogul Harvey Weinstein are dubious to say the least.
"Whilst it has no doubt always been the case that some individuals have achieved their big break via the casting couch, this sudden flurry of alleged inappropriate advances beggars belief.
"Just as with the claims against Jimmy Saville here in the UK, why did no one say anything until now?"
But this afternoon Mr Amess’ office released a statement which said: “Unfortunately, a press release was issued in my name from my office this morning which I had not seen or authorised.
“I was horrified when I read its contents, so I have sought to clarify the issue as soon as possible.”
It added: “I wish to make it perfectly plain I abhor what Harvey Weinstein has been accused of and furthermore I think the way that he has allegedly treated some women is disgusting.
“I apologise for any upset that the original press release may have caused and I have now put instructions in place to prevent this happening again.”
The Conservative party failed to comment by the time of publication.
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