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Cornish Labour MP accused in Sexuality Row

Cornish Labour MP Candy Atherton (Falmouth-Camborne) is fighting accusations of "homophobia" after her former researcher claimed he had been asked to "dig up dirt" on her Tory opponent's sexuality.
An employment tribunal was told that Candy Atherton had asked her "openly gay" assistant to look for anything "salacious" in the lifestyle of her prospective Conservative opponent Ashley Crossley, who is also gay.

Paul Phillips 36 informed the tribunal in Croydon that he had found it "offensive" for anyone's sexual orientation to be used to their detriment. Mr Phillips, who resigned earlier this year, has launched proceedings for discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation.

Ms Atherton was said to be angered and upset by the allegations last night. In a statement she said she would be contesting the claims "vigorously" when they go to a full hearing next month. She added: "As these proceedings are ongoing I am unable to say anything until they have been concluded, except that I am vigorously contesting this claim."

Mr Crossley last night said he would be "disappointed" if the allegations proved to be true. Earlier this year a group of local Tory activists tried - and failed - to deselect him in a row that was itself clouded by accusations of homophobia.

The Labour Party declined to comment on the case.