Tory MP shocked by HQ fire attack

Rosindell called the attack despicable

Conservative MP Andrew Rosindell says he is shocked by what he believes to be a politically motivated attack on his party headquarters.

Mr Rosindell's office in Western Road, Romford, was gutted by fire in the early hours of Friday.

Police are treating the fire as suspicious and believe petrol was used.

The MP says he suspects the "despicable" attack was aimed at the Tory party, following an incident at another Tory premises in the town.

The MP told BBC Radio Essex he was contacted by police just after 0200 GMT on Friday.

"Obviously I was shocked and very disturbed at what I'd heard and went straight down there to see the damage," he said.

"And sadly the bulk of the downstairs of the building has been completely gutted.

"Obviously I'm appalled - it's an outrageous attack and I have to say I think there is some political motivation behind it."

'Open mind'

Police and firefighters were called to the Conservative Club, which combines Mr Rosindell's offices with a social club, at around 0100 GMT.

A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said the fire had damaged several rooms on the ground floor.

There were signs of petrol but no evidence that it was a firebomb.

Inquiries were at any early stage, she said, and detectives were keeping an open mind about the motive for the attack.

The spokeswoman said she was not aware of a fire at another premises being linked to any other attacks.

Any witnesses to the incident are asked to call Romford CID on 01708 779246.

Mr Rosindell became well-known during the 2001 election for his populist campaigning style, usually accompanied by his Union Jack-clad bull terrier Spike, who has now died.

The right-winger won the seat on the biggest national swing to the Tories.