But he has temporarily stood aside from the Lib Dems in the Lords to avoid "embarrassment" to the party.

BBC: Lord Rennard

The peer said he knew of no complaints against him in his 27 years working for the party, but he has temporarily stood aside from the Lib Dems' group in the Lords to avoid "embarrassment" to the party.

BBC: Lord Rennard

The peer said he knew of no complaints against him in his 27 years working for the party but he has temporarily stood aside from the Lib Dem group in the Lords to avoid "embarrassment" to the party.

BBC: Lord Rennard claims: Alleged victim speaks to police

He said he was "very grateful, delighted and honoured" that the Lib Dems had stood aside and were urging their local supporters to help and vote for him - but he stressed he was "most of all independent".

BBC: Lib Dems bow out of key seat