Police are investigating an allegation that former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson raped a woman in the Houses of Parliament, it is understood.
It said: “On Tuesday October 13, the Met received a report, referred to us by Police Service of Northern Ireland, relating to an allegation of rape in 2016, by a man now aged 63.
“The allegation relates to one victim who is being supported by specialist officers.
“The investigation is in its early stages. No arrests have been made and inquiries remain ongoing.”
Earlier this month, Donaldson was given a 15-year sentence for a series of historical sex offences against two women when they were children.
He was convicted of 18 offences, including one count of rape, 13 counts of indecent assault and four counts of gross indecency, committed between 1985 and 2008.
Since his conviction, he has been stripped of his knighthood and removed from the Privy Council.
His solicitor has previously confirmed that papers have been lodged for an appeal.
Deputy Speaker Nusrat Ghani told the Commons on Wednesday evening these were “highly concerning allegations for all in the parliamentary community”.
It came in response to a point of order from Alliance MP Sorcha Eastwood (Lagan Valley), who said: “I know that former and current members of staff on this estate may be deeply affected by these reports.
“What advice can the chair give on how we can support those who are distressed by this news, and on how we can encourage anyone with concerns to come forward?”
Ms Ghani replied: “This will, of course, be highly concerning allegations for all in the parliamentary community.
“The Parliamentary Health and Wellbeing Service can advise and assist on the range of support available for anyone affected by these reports, and there are established mechanisms for anyone with concerns wishing to come forward, while, of course, any criminal allegations should be made to the appropriate authorities.”