TWO Southampton politicians have criticised the government after the MP accused of watching pornography in the Commons was named as Tory Neil Parish.

Mr Parish, Conservative MP for Tiverton and Honiton, has reported himself to the parliamentary authorities over allegations he viewed adult material on his mobile phone.

The 65-year-old has been suspended from the parliamentary party and is under investigation by the Commons Standards Committee.

Alan Whitehead, Labour MP for Southampton Test, said: "This is another example of Tory sleaze and yet more evidence that this Conservative government is rotting from the head down.

Daily Echo: Alan Whitehead, Labour MP for Southampton Test.Alan Whitehead, Labour MP for Southampton Test. (Image: Newsquest)

"The Conservatives took far too long to suspend Neil Parish. They should have taken action as soon as they were made aware of what he had done."

READ MORE: Tory MP could face independent probe after 'watching pornography in the Commons

Caroline Nokes, Tory MP for Romsey and Southampton North, voiced similar views.

The former minister told ITV News: "Nobody should be watching pornography at work, so I'm pleased that that action has been taken and I hope that the two women who complained are being supported through the system as well.

“I was very disappointed that the whip wasn't withdrawn immediately."

Royston Smith, Tory MP for Southampton Itchen, added: “I know Neil Parish as a decent man. He has referred himself to Parliament’s Standards Committee and I think that is the right thing to do. They will carry out a full and thorough investigation.”

Daily Echo: Caroline Nokes, Tory MP for Romsey and Southampton North.Caroline Nokes, Tory MP for Romsey and Southampton North. (Image: PA)

Two female colleagues complained after allegedly seeing an MP looking at pornography whilst sitting near them in the Commons chamber.

Earlier this week Mr Parish gave an interview with GB News in which he was asked about the allegations.

He said: "I think the whips’ office will do a thorough investigation and we will wait and see that result and from that, then the decision will have to be made what action will be taken.

“We’ve got some 650 members of parliament in what is a very intense area. You are going to get people who step over the line.”

Mr Parish added: “It does have to be dealt with and dealt with seriously.”

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