THE MP for Frome and Somerton has been readmitted to a psychiatric hospital for urgent treatment.

An announcement on David Warburton's website says he has suffered "a sharp decline in his mental health".

It adds that his office "continues to function as normal".

The statement issued yesterday (Wednesday, July 6) comes a week after he posted another statement on the same site saying he was delighted that an investigation into his conduct was underway.

Mr Warburton said he will have plenty to say once that investigation concludes.

The investigation follows unsubstantiated allegations in the national media of lurid behaviour.

The full statement says: "For the past twelve weeks I have faced accusations which I have - as yet - been unable to address due to the strict confidentiality terms which are explicitly required during any such investigation process.

"Until two weeks ago, I had not even been officially informed what the accusations were or who had made them.

"It has been immensely difficult not to speak out, but I have steadfastly adhered to the very strict rules of confidentiality and will continue to do so until the investigation concludes.

"Then, I will have much to say. I must say that I’m delighted that - finally - the investigation is underway.

"While the investigation takes place, I have had the whip removed, which means that I am technically an ‘independent’ MP and was unable therefore to take part in the recent confidence vote on the Prime Minister earlier.

"I hugely look forward to resuming my place on the Conservative benches and, in the meantime, continue to work every day for the people of Somerton and Frome, both here in Somerset and in Westminster.