Penny Mordaunt had to step up security after stalker jumped barrier at her office, court hears

Former MP and leader of the House of Commons tells court ‘situation took its toll on me’

The former Conservative MP and leader of the House of Commons, Penny Mordaunt, was forced to increase security at her home and office after she was targeted by a stalker, a jury has heard.

Mordaunt sobbed in court as she described how the alleged attentions of Edward Brandt, 60, which included bombarding her with emails and calls and jumping a security barrier at her office, left her feeling vulnerable and drained.

She told Southampton crown court she believed Brandt wanted a romantic relationship with her. Mordaunt said: “The situation took its toll on me. You’re constantly having to think about whether he was going to be in your workplace or on your street.”

Robert Bryan, prosecuting, said Brandt faced an allegation of stalking involving severe harm or distress. Brandt denies the charge.