Rochford and Southend East MP James Duddridge says politicians must adhere to the highest standards as rumours of inappropriate sexual behaviour continue to swirl around Westminster.

As an increasing number of MPs are caught up in sleaze allegations, Prime Minister, Theresa May said she would act “without fear or favour” in dealing with the problem.

Her reaction prompted concerns the Government could be brought down by the scandal as the loss of just seven seats in a flurry of by-elections would wipe out its majority.

But Conservative Mr Duddridge is backing her tough stance.

He said: “Westminster needs to abide by the same of rules and standards as the rest of the country, if not higher standards.”

Mark Francois, Conservative MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, called for safeguards for staff who work at the House of Commons.

He said: “The staff who are employed at Westminster helping MPs with their duties, should have a right to work in a safe and respectful environment. It is the least they are entitled to expect

“It is important that if anybody feels they have been subject to sexual harassment they should be able to come forward and explain the details of what happened, so that any such incident can be properly investigated by the authorities.”

Speaking at a Confederation of British Industry conference, Mrs May said she was determined to address allegations head-on.

The Prime Minister told the conference politicians on all sides had failed to tackle the “deeply troubling” problems of sexual conduct at Westminster over many years

Party leaders were due to hold emergency talks to try and increase protection for MPs’ staff.

Mrs May is reported to have put the Tories on a “state of readiness” to fight by-elections.

Her intervention comes after Home Secretary Amber Rudd suggested MPs found guilty of sexual harassment could be kicked out of the Commons under a tough new crackdown.

Sir Michael Fallon has already resigned as Defence Secretary.