Daniel Korski: Tory mayoral hopeful will ‘absolutely’ proceed marketing campaign after denying groping allegation

Conservative London mayoral hopeful Daniel Korski will “absolutely” proceed his marketing campaign after denying an allegation of groping.

Mr Korski has known as the allegation “baseless” – and has “categorically” denied any wrongdoing.

But his marketing campaign is already dealing with headwinds, as Sky News has been advised that training minister Robert Halfon has paused his backing of Mr Korski.

The former Downing Street adviser launched a prolonged assertion on Tuesday after the allegation emerged on Monday night.

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TV producer and screenwriter Daisy Goodwin alleged in an article for The Times that she was “groped” by Mr Korski a decade in the past, when he was working for the then prime minister, David Cameron.

In an announcement posted on social media, Mr Korski mentioned that “politics can be a rough and challenging business”, and that “unfortunately, in the midst of this demanding environment, this baseless allegation from the past has resurfaced”.

And talking later to TalkTV, Mr Korski mentioned he “absolutely” would proceed his marketing campaign – including that the allegation was revealed to the Conservative Party throughout his vetting.

Asked whether or not any comparable accusations could possibly be made sooner or later, Mr Korski mentioned: “To the best of my knowledge, absolutely, I don’t expect anybody to come out today.”

Health Secretary Steve Barclay advised broadcasters this afternoon that he understood no formal criticism has been made in opposition to Mr Korski, that means the Conservative Party can’t begin an investigation.

He added that it was “right” Mr Korski had put out an announcement.

Mr Korski’s assertion mentioned: “I know that simply denying such allegations may not be enough to alleviate the concerns and doubts that might arise in your minds. I firmly believe in the importance of empathy, respect, and the wellbeing of every individual within society.

“I’m – and have all the time been – dedicated to fostering an surroundings the place everyone feels valued, heard and supported.”

He added: “As a father I am especially committed to making sure everyone feels safe on the streets of London.

“To those that have been affected by any type of misconduct or harassment, let me guarantee you that I stand firmly in opposition to such behaviour. I’m dedicated to fostering an surroundings the place everybody feels valued, heard, and supported.

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“I am grateful for each and every one of you, for your continued support.”

Speaking earlier than the most recent assertion, one senior Conservative who had been backing Mr Korski advised Sky News: “This feels unsustainable, and if I were advising him, I would say pull out of the race, and quickly.”

But one other Tory MP mentioned “this is not the Daniel I know, I can’t believe he would do this”, and hoped he would come out preventing.

Tory members will vote from 4 to 18 July on their most popular selection for the London mayoral election subsequent yr, with the winner introduced on 19 July.