Ex–Rochdale MP accused of abuse

Former Liberal Democrat MP Sir Cyril Smith abused young boys, an MP claimed in the House of Commons yesterday.

Former Rochdale MP Sir Cyril, who died two years ago, is at the centre of allegations he administered punishments to vulnerable children such as slapping youngsters’ naked bottoms, Labour MP Simon Danczuk said.

He added: “Young boys were humiliated, terrified and reduced to quivering wrecks by a 29st bully imposing himself on them.”

Similar allegations have been made about Sir Cyril in the past.

Mr Danczuk, who now represents Rochdale, has previously highlighted the sexual abuse of young girls at the hands of Asian men in his constituency.

He levelled the accusations against his predecessor during a Commons debate on child sexual exploitation.