The Director of Public Prosecutions, Keir Starmer QC, said:
“Following an investigation by Lancashire police, the Crown Prosecution Service has received a file of evidence in the case of Mr Nigel Evans MP which concerns allegations of a sexual nature.
“After careful consideration, we have concluded that there is sufficient evidence and that it is in the public interest to prosecute Mr Evans. Lancashire Constabulary has therefore been authorised to charge two counts of indecent assault, five counts of sexual assault and one count of rape relating to a total of seven alleged victims.
“The decision in this case was taken by Joanne Cunliffe, an experienced specialist rape prosecutor, in consultation with John Dilworth, Head of the CPS North West Complex Casework Unit and in consultation with an external and highly experienced criminal QC. I have also been consulted on this case. The decision has been taken in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors and the CPS legal guidance on rape and sexual offences.
“Mr Evans will appear before Preston Magistrates’ Court on 18 September 2013.
“Can I remind all concerned that criminal proceedings are now active. All defendants have the right to a fair trial and it is very important that nothing is said, or reported, which could prejudice this trial.”
The charges are:
• One count of indecent assault on a man, dating between 1 January 2002 and 1 January 2004, contrary to Section 15 Sexual Offences Act 1956
• One count of indecent assault on a man, dating between 1 January 2003 and 1 January 2004, contrary to Section 15 Sexual Offences Act 1956
• One count of sexual assault on a man, between 1 January 2009 and 1 January 2010, contrary to Section 3 Sexual Offences Act 2003
• One count of sexual assault on a man, between 30 June 2009 and 1 August 2009, contrary to Section 3 Sexual Offences Act 2003
• One count of sexual assault on a man, between 1 January 2010 and 1 January 2011, contrary to Section 3 Sexual Offences Act 2003
• One count of sexual assault on a man, between 1 January 2011 and 1 January 2012, contrary to Section 3 Sexual Offences Act 2003
• Once count of rape of a man, between 29 March 2013 and 1 April 2013, contrary to Section 1 Sexual Offences Act 2003
• One count of sexual assault on a man, between 29 March 2013 and 1 April 2013, contrary to Section 3 Sexual Offences Act 2003
