The House of Commons speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, has said he passed information to the Metropolitan police that Peter Mandelson planned to flee the country, after receiving information “in good faith”.

Mandelson was arrested on Monday on suspicion of misconduct in a public office, relating to his friendship with the convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Mandelson has denied he planned to flee to the British Virgin Islands.

In a statement to the house, Hoyle said: “Members will be aware of comments in the media regarding the arrest of Lord Mandelson.

“To prevent any inaccurate speculation, I’d like to confirm that upon receipt of information, that I felt it was relevant I pass this on to the Metropolitan police in good faith, as is my duty and responsibility.”

More details to follow …