An MP is set to face trial over accusations of groping two women in a single night while intoxicated at the Groucho Club in London.

Patrick Spencer, the MP representing Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, pleaded not guilty to two charges of sexual assault at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday morning.

Although the magistrate offered to handle the case, Spencer chose to exercise his right to a jury trial in the crown court.

The prosecutor, Polly Dyer, informed the court that Spencer was accused of inappropriately touching the breasts of two women without their consent at the exclusive members-only club on August 12, 2023.

According to the prosecution, Spencer allegedly made the first woman uncomfortable with his advances around 8pm that evening. It was claimed that he was intoxicated and insisted on buying her a drink, pressuring her to accept, and inquiring about her marital status.

Later that same night, about four hours after the initial incident, the prosecutor alleged that Spencer approached the woman from behind, placed his arms around her, and groped her breasts over her clothing.

The woman was reportedly taken aback, unaware of his actions, and did not give her consent, as stated by Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring.

The court also heard that the second woman had a similar experience on the same night. Spencer allegedly pressured her to try a drink, and when she took a sip in hopes of avoiding a confrontation, he embraced her and touched her breasts without her consent.

Following the incidents, Spencer was elected as a Conservative MP in the subsequent general election. However, the Conservative party suspended him immediately and withdrew the whip.

Spencer, dressed in a suit and glasses, stood to plead not guilty and opted for a jury trial. He was granted bail and is scheduled to appear at Southwark Crown Court on July 14.