Commons worker on porn charges

The man was arrested in the House of Commons

A House of Commons worker is to stand trial on charges of making indecent images of children.

Phillip Lyon, a 37-year-old junior office clerk, faces 12 charges of creating images between 10 October 2001 and 17 April this year.

Mr Lyon was present for a five-minute plea and directions hearing at London's Southwark Crown Court, standing with his hands clasped in front of him as he entered not guilty pleas to each allegation.

The offences carry a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment.

Judge James Wadsworth QC, told Lyon, of Langdon Hill, Basildon, Essex, his five-day trial would start on 24 March next year.

"Your bail is extended until then," he added.

The Parliamentary worker was arrested in April by vice detectives at his office at the Commons.