West Berkshire Lib Dem spokeswoman reacts to suspension of party's senior politician

A senior member of the Liberal Democrat party, Lord Rennard masterminded the by-election campaign which saw David Rendel elected MP for Newbury in 1993.
Last February, the peer faced allegations of inappropriate sexual behaviour involving at least 10 women, dating back to 2001, and subsequently resigned his whip status while an investigation was carried out.
A statement released by Alistair Webster QC, the barrister appointed by the Lib Dems to investigate the allegations, said: “There was credible evidence that events had occurred which had caused distress.”
He was advised to make a public apology and was henceforth suspended from the party by its leader Nick Clegg yesterday (Mon) for failing to do so.
Lord Rennard has always denied the accusations.
Speaking to NewburyToday yesterday, Ms Bunting (pictured) said of his suspension: “I wish it wasn’t necessary and I wish he had apologised when he accepted Alistair Webster’s report.
“We have had a couple of emails from people who are very unhappy with the situation.”
When asked if she thought the Liberal Democrat party had lost support, both nationally and locally, as a result, she said: “I would probably be foolish to say no...I certainly don’t think it’s done us any favours.
“However, as with any situation like this, we are talking about one person.
“People are very concerned, there’s no doubt, but I really hope that just as you stand by a friend when they have a problem that people stand by the Liberal Democrats.
“As a party we are still here and still stand for the same values.
“That doesn’t change because one man has perhaps acted unwisely.”
What are your views on the matter? Let reporter Ellis Barker know by emailing ellis.barker@newburynews.co.uk