Julian Knight to Run as Independent After Sexual Assault Allegations Dropped

Former Tory MP challenges party's candidate in newly created Solihull West and Shirley seat, criticizes Prime Minister's campaign efforts.

Julian Knight, previously suspended over sexual assault claims, will stand as an independent in the upcoming general election.
Knight was stripped of the Tory whip in December 2022 but investigations by both the Metropolitan and Essex Police were dropped.
He claims the allegations were false and are now being investigated for perversion of the course of justice.
Knight criticizes Rishi Sunak's campaign abilities, stating Solihull would be best served by an independent in a Labour-dominated Parliament.
His decision complicates the Conservative Party's efforts to retain the newly formed Solihull West and Shirley seat.