An aide to Conservative backbench MP Craig Mackinlay has appeared in court accused of raping and sexually assaulting a woman.

Sam Armstrong, who worked with South Thanet MP Craig Mackinlay, appeared today at Westminster magistrates court accused of two counts of rape and one of sexual assault by penetration.

Armstrong, 23, of Danbury, is alleged to have attacked the woman in the Houses of Parliament on October 14 last year.

The case was adjourned and the former chief of staff was released on bail until his next court appearance on April 28 at Southwark crown court.