A senior Liberal Democrat peer accused of sexually harassing a number of women, including a former Scottish councillor, has been interviewed by police under caution.

Lord Rennard denies the allegations, which came to light when the women went public with their complaints earlier this year.

The news that he had been interviewed by police came just days after LibDem leader Nick Clegg and two of his ministers, Jo Swinson and Danny Alexander, were strongly criticised in a review into the party's handling of the complaints.

Lord Rennard's solicitors said he had welcomed "his first opportunity to refute the basis of allegations made against him".

Among those who had complained to the media about his behaviour was former Aberdeen LibDem councillor Alison Smith.

Another, Bridget Harris, a former special adviser to Mr Clegg, said yesterday she welcomed the action the police had taken.