Cleared ex-MP going back to work

David Prior was MP for North Norfolk from 1997 to 2001

An ex-MP is to return to his job after being cleared of involvement in an alleged fraud at a psychiatric hospital where he was non-executive chairman.

David Prior was arrested with three others after allegations of financial irregularity at the private sector Cawston Park Hospital in Norfolk.

He stood down from his job as chairman of the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital while he was investigated.

Now cleared of any wrongdoing he will take up his old post again next month.

Mr Prior, MP for North Norfolk from 1997 to 2001, was selected for the job by the Appointments Commission.

The hospital said it was delighted to have him back and Mr Prior described the police investigation as a nightmare for him, but he denied the allegations during the three-month investigation.

Inquiries into the clinic are still continuing.