Liberal senator David Van rejects Lidia Thorpe accusation in parliament he sexually assaulted her

Van vehemently denied the claims made by the independent senator under parliamentary privilege

• Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates
• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

Lidia Thorpe has accused Senate colleague David Van of harassment and sexual assault during a heated exchange in parliament, an allegation the Liberal politician vehemently denied.

Thorpe made the claims under parliamentary privilege during an interjection in the Senate on Wednesday afternoon as Van was speaking about respect in parliament.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup