Russell Brand accused of rape and sexual abuse

Russell Brand has been accused of a rape, sexual assaults and emotional abuse in a period spanning seven years and during the height of his fame.

The allegations from four women – including one who claimed she was just 16 when she was “groomed” by the comedian – have emerged as part of an investigation by Channel 4 Dispatches and The Sunday Times.

Brand, 48, who is in the middle of a UK tour, has vehemently denied the “very, very serious criminal allegations”, insisting that all his sexual relationships have been consensual.

On Saturday, senior Tory MPs responded to the claims by stressing the duty of Public Service Broadcasters to investigate the claims.