Oxford University Union President Ben Sullivan Arrested On Suspicion Of Rape

Oxford Union President Arrested On Suspicion Of Rape

The president of Oxford University's prestigious debating union has been arrested on suspicion of rape and attempted rape, it has been revealed.

Ben Sullivan, who was recently embroiled in a scandal involving an elite drinking club named the "Banter Squadron", was taken into police custody early on Wednesday morning, the Tab reported.

Ben Sullivan, the president of the Oxford Union

A spokesperson for Thames Valley police told HuffPost UK: "A 21-year-old man from Oxford has been arrested today on suspicion of rape and attempted rape.

"He is currently in police custody."

In an email to the Tab, Christ Church, Sullivan's college, said: "We have unfortunately received information that a Junior Member of Christ Church has been arrested and that this may become the subject of interest from the press."

Sullivan had only a day before published an apology for his actions over the drinking society on student paper Cherwell. This has since been taken down with no explanation, although it can still be read here.

The open letter read: "Firstly, I would like to sincerely apologise for the events of the last couple of weeks. I have made mistakes."

Sullivan was also due to hold an open meeting at 3pm on the day of his arrest to discuss the issue.

Previous presidents of the union include William Gladstone, Michael Heseltine, Michael Gove and the lately deceased Tony Benn.

The university refused to comment on the arrest.

Sullivan has since been released after questioning but must answer bail on June 18.

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