Drug-Scandal Lord Will Not Face Charges

Lord Sewel will not face charges over allegations the peer indulged in drug-taking with prostitutes, police have said.

The 69-year-old peer stepped down from the House of Lords and apologised for the "pain and embarrassment" he caused after being exposed by the Sun on Sunday apparently snorting cocaine off a prostitute's breasts with a £5 note at his flat near the Palace of Westminster.

Footage showed Lord Sewel, who in his role as chairman of the Privileges and Standards Committee is responsible for setting behaviour standards for peers, in an orange bra and leather jacket smoking and drinking with the women.

The matter was passed to the Metropolitan Police for investigation, however, they have said there is "insufficient evidence" to proceed with the investigation.

In a statement the force said: "Following a review of all the material, including a forensic examination of an address in central London, there is insufficient evidence to proceed with this investigation and the matter is now closed."

Lord Sewel announced he was terminating his membership of the House of Lords in July and effectively admitted his behaviour had breached the Code of Conduct, which he had helped to establish.

The scandal sparked questions over the legitimacy of the unelected House of Lords, which has been criticised for being out of touch and undemocratic.

David Cameron has created peers at a faster rate than any other Prime Minister since life peerages began in 1958.

There are currently 783 members in the upper chamber, making it the largest legislative body outside China - there are 650 MPs in the House of Commons.

The peer was also caught on camera attacking some of the country's most high-profile politicians, including Tony Blair and Mr Cameron, whom he called "facile".