Labour Candidate Investigated Over Alleged Sexual Harassment Incident

Labour's parliamentary candidate for Barking, Darren Rodwell, faces investigation within the party following accusations of inappropriate behaviour towards a female attendee at a recent event. The incident has raised concerns as the party approaches candidate finalization for the upcoming general election.

Labour Candidate Investigated for Alleged Sexual Harassment

London, June 3, 2024 - Darren Rodwell, Labour's parliamentary candidate for Barking and leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, is under investigation by the Labour Party for alleged inappropriate touching at an event last month. A female attendee has accused Rodwell of touching her hands and legs during a meeting meant to discuss local developments.

The complainant reported the incident to Labour’s complaints unit and received confirmation that an investigator would be in contact. Labour has not issued an official comment, citing the ongoing disciplinary process.

Rodwell is a prominent figure in local government, credited with significant regeneration projects in Barking and Dagenham, including new housing, a film studio, and a university campus. However, his candidacy is under scrutiny due to this allegation and other controversies, including a reported incident where he allegedly used council resources to locate and confront an online critic.

Labour has set a deadline of June 4 to finalize candidates for the general election, with nominations closing on June 7.

Other candidates for the Barking constituency include Simon Anthony (Green Party), Charley Hasted (Liberal Democrats), Clive Peacock (Reform UK), and Hamid Shah (Workers Party).