Harvey Proctor, the former Tory MP, who was falsely accused of child rape and murder by a fantasist called Nick, is suing him and Scotland Yard for £1 million.

The 71-year-old, who lost his home and his job, as a result of the malicious allegations, has launched a claim for damages in the High Court.

His legal action could see Nick - whose real identity cannot be revealed for legal reasons - have to give evidence in open court for the first time about the extraordinary false claims that traduced the reputations of a string of high profile figures.

Mr Proctor - who represented the constituency of Basildon between 1979 and 1983 and Billericay between 1983 and 1987 - was one of a number of well known men accused of being part of a VIP paedophile ring operating at the heart of Westminster.

He was questioned by police over the alleged killing two young boys and assisting in the murder of a third.