LONDON — Surrey Police have dropped allegations of rape against former Conservative MP Crispin Blunt 19 months after he was arrested, the force confirmed Thursday.

In a statement first issued to the Spectator, Surrey Police said there was ” insufficient evidence to proceed” and “no further action would be taken” on the report of rape.

However, it said Blunt would remain under investigation “on suspicion of possession of controlled substances” and that enquires were ongoing.

Blunt, a former justice minister, was arrested on suspicion of rape in October 2023 while still serving as an MP for Reigate in Surrey. At the time, Blunt said he was interviewed twice and arrested the second time: “The arrest was unnecessary as I remain ready to cooperate fully with the investigation that I am confident will end without charge.” 

The-then Tory MP also said he would not comment on the matter until the police had concluded their inquiries.

The Conservative whip was removed and he did not stand at the 2024 election.

Surrey Police said: “An investigation was launched following a report of rape in October 2023. Extensive enquiries have been carried out and a man in his 60s and a man in his 50s were arrested on 25 October 2023 in Horley in connection with the offence.”

The statement adds: “It has since been determined that there is insufficient evidence to proceed and that no further action will be taken against either of the men in relation to the report of rape.

“However, both men will remain under investigation on suspicion of possession of controlled substances pending further enquiries. Enquiries into this matter are ongoing.”