Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing claims she publicly scolded a male colleague over his “inappropriate behaviour” towards a researcher.

The veteran Conservative MP’s admission comes amid a storm of allegations surrounding sexual harassment in Westminster.

The deputy speaker is said to have confronted Tory MP Daniel Kawczynski following an incident involving a female researcher in 2013.

It is claimed Mr Kawczynski attempted to pressure the woman into going on a date with a wealthy contact of his who was “older than her father”.

The Shrewsbury and Atcham MP allegedly approached the researcher, who was working for Mrs Laing at the time, on behalf of the businessman after he had seen her in parliament.

The claims have been referred to the party’s disciplinary committee for further investigation.

Mr Kawczynski is understood to acknowledge he asked the woman if she would go for coffee with his friend, but strongly denies acting inappropriately.

However, Mrs Laing says she confronted her colleague over his actions, which had “angered” her.

In a statement issued this week, the MP said: “I was very angry at this inappropriate behaviour and I strongly reprimanded my colleague in front of several witnesses.

“I feel very strongly that women of my generation have got to stand up for the younger generation of women because that’s how we will get cultural change.

“My number one concern is to protect the identity of this young researcher. She deserves privacy, just like any other victim.”

Mr Kawczynski is one of three Tory MPs to be reported to be referred to the party’s disciplinary panel the as sexual harassment scandal in Westminster develops.

Former work and pensions secretary Stephen Crabb and former health minister Dan Poulter are also under investigation over various allegations.

Defence secretary Sir Michael Fallon has already been forced to stand down last week amid claims of sexual harassment.

Meanwhile, Labour have suspended Luton North MP Kelvin Hopkins over alleged inappropriate conduct and have also launched a probe into claims surrounding Norwich South MP Clive Lewis.