Mike Hancock, English politician

Michael Thomas Hancock, born on July 9, 1946, is a prominent figure in British politics whose career spanned several decades and multiple party affiliations. He notably represented the constituency of Portsmouth South as a Member of Parliament (MP) for various periods, ultimately concluding his parliamentary service as an independent MP amidst significant controversy.

Hancock's parliamentary career commenced in the mid-1980s when he first secured the seat for Portsmouth South. Following a by-election in 1984, he served as an MP for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) until 1987. After this initial tenure, Hancock remained engaged in public life, eventually returning to represent Portsmouth South, this time as a Liberal Democrat.

A Pivotal Year: 2014 Allegations and Political Fallout

The year 2014 marked a critical turning point in Hancock's political career, overshadowed by serious allegations and subsequent repercussions. In early June 2014, he faced a civil court action brought against him by a female constituent, identified publicly only as 'Annie', who alleged improper conduct. In response to these grave accusations, and while the civil action was pending, Hancock formally stepped down from the Liberal Democrat whip. This action meant he would continue to serve as the Member of Parliament for Portsmouth South but as an independent representative, rather than under the Liberal Democrat party's formal discipline.

Later that same month, a resolution to the civil action was reached through an out-of-court settlement. In a significant development, Hancock publicly admitted that he had indeed "crossed the line" into inappropriate behaviour. The formal announcement of his resignation as the Member of Parliament for Portsmouth South followed on September 18, 2014, bringing an end to his parliamentary career.

Local Elections and Broader Political Impact

Prior to these parliamentary events, in the 2014 Portsmouth City Council elections, Hancock had also stood as an independent candidate, seeking to retain his seat in the Fratton Ward. However, he was unsuccessful, losing to Julie Swan of the UK Independence Party (UKIP). This local election result was part of a broader shift in the city's political landscape, as the Liberal Democrats simultaneously lost overall control of Portsmouth City Council.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Michael Thomas Hancock?

Born on July 9, 1946, Michael Thomas Hancock is a British politician who notably served as a Member of Parliament for Portsmouth South.

What were Michael Hancock's key parliamentary roles?

Hancock served as MP for Portsmouth South on two occasions. His first tenure was for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) from 1984 to 1987. He later returned to represent the constituency, eventually as a Liberal Democrat, and concluded his parliamentary service as an independent MP until his resignation in 2014.

Why did Michael Hancock resign from the Liberal Democrat whip in 2014?

In early June 2014, Hancock formally resigned from the Liberal Democrat whip due to a civil court action initiated by a female constituent, known only as 'Annie', who alleged improper conduct against him. This step meant he continued as an MP but without his party's official affiliation and discipline.

What was the outcome of the civil court action against him?

An out-of-court settlement was reached in late June 2014. As part of this settlement, Michael Hancock publicly acknowledged that he had "crossed the line" into inappropriate behaviour.

When did Michael Hancock formally resign as a Member of Parliament?

The formal announcement of Michael Hancock's resignation as the Member of Parliament for Portsmouth South was made on September 18, 2014.

Did Michael Hancock contest any other elections in 2014?

Yes, Michael Hancock also stood as an independent candidate in the 2014 Portsmouth City Council elections for the Fratton Ward. He lost his seat to UKIP candidate Julie Swan, an election in which the Liberal Democrats also lost overall control of the council.