Tory MP who pestered intern, 21, is ordered to undergo training for ‘unacceptable’ conduct

A Tory MP who invited a 21-year-old female intern to ‘fool around’ with him will not be kicked out of the party.

But Rob Roberts will have to undergo training for his ‘unacceptable’ conduct, his party said.

The 41-year-old MP for Delyn in North Wales made the comments in a series of messages in April last year. 

He told the intern working in Parliament that she had ‘lovely legs’ and asked her not to ignore him ‘when I’m making you feel better’. 

And he said that in future she might want to ‘fool around with no strings, you might come and visit me in London’.

The messages prompted the Tories to start an inquiry. 

A party source said that no official complaints had been received and that it acted on the basis of third party complaints. 

Last night a Conservative spokesman confirmed the inquiry had concluded. 

‘Rob Roberts’ conduct was found to be unacceptable under the party’s code of conduct and he has been strongly rebuked,’ the party said.

‘Mr Roberts has apologised for his behaviour and was instructed to undertake safeguarding and social media protection training.’

Politico reported that the inquiry finished at least three weeks ago but that the party said it could not share the outcome for reasons of confidentiality.

An email from the party’s complaints department to one of Mr Roberts’ constituents stated: ‘The party takes these matters very seriously, and we would like to reassure you that when we have been made aware of these cases, we act decisively – launching immediate investigations and taking further action when appropriate.’

It added: ‘Whilst I’m afraid I cannot go into further detail at this time due to the confidential nature of the process, I can confirm the case is now closed.’