Lib Dems admit ‘mistakes’ over Rennard

The Deputy Prime Minister continued to insist he was personally unaware of any specific allegations by women in the party until they were broadcast by Channel 4 last week.

But he suggested the issue was “in the background” when the peer – who strenuously denies the alleged inappropriate behaviour – retired from his senior role on grounds of ill-health.

Mr Clegg’s comments have heightened speculation that the Lib Dem leadership tried to cover up allegations to protect the peer who was its election guru.

Lord Rennard, who stepped down as chief executive on health grounds in 2009, said yesterday he was ready to “co-operate with any properly-constituted inquiry”.

The peer issued a fresh denial of any wrong-doing as senior Lib Dems met Metropolitan Police officers to discuss the case.