Tom Watson apologises in Lords for promoting false abuse allegations

Ex-Labour deputy leader uses first speech to express remorse for role in seeking action over claims of Westminster paedophile ring

The former Labour deputy leader Tom Watson has used his maiden speech in the Lords to formally apologise for highlighting allegations of historical abuse levelled by Carl Beech, who was later revealed to be a serial fantasist.

Lord Watson, who was also a minister during 18 years as an MP, left parliament before the 2019 election and had been expected to join the upper house swiftly.