The Chair of the Police Federation, John Apter, who is from the Isle of Wight, has been suspended from his role.

An investigation is underway, led by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), after two allegations of sexual touching and possible breaches of standards.

A spokesman for the Police Federation of England and Wales said: "We have been informed that the National Chair of the Police Federation has been suspended from duty by Hampshire Police whilst an investigation is undertaken.

"As a result, he is also currently suspended from his current PFEW role.

"PFEW has acted as swiftly as possible in conjunction with the force.

"We are unable to comment on this matter until the investigation has concluded."

John Apter's Twitter account has been deactivated.

An IOPC spokesperson said: "On Friday, December 17, we received a referral relating to a police constable from Hampshire Constabulary and we have started an independent investigation.

"On Monday, December 20, the officer was served with a notice of investigation for potential breaches of police professional standards relating to four separate alleged incidents.

"They were also advised they are subject to criminal investigation, for sexual touching contrary to section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003, in relation to two of those alleged incidents."

The national vice chair of the Police Federation, Ché Donald, is standing in 'until further notice.'