MP John Hemming's wife in court over kitten theft Published duration 21 October 2010

image caption A picture of this tabby cat was earlier posted on John Hemming's blog

An MP's wife has been charged with burgling her husband's lover's house and stealing a £20 tabby kitten.

Christine Hemming, 52, wife of Yardley Lib Dem MP John Hemming , did not enter a plea when she appeared at Birmingham Magistrates' Court.

She is charged with burgling the home of researcher Emily Cox, with whom Mr Hemming fathered a child in 2005.

The burglary is said to have taken place on 29 September. The case has been committed for trial.

Mrs Hemming has been granted conditional bail and will appear before magistrates for a committal hearing on 16 December.

Twinkle 'pining'

A message alongside it read: "If anyone has seen this kitten please contact me at the House of Commons. There is a reward for its return."

Speaking after the hearing Mr Hemming described his domestic status as "an unclear situation" but said he would like the cat back.

"I have spent some time looking for the kitten and there is a reward for the safe return of the kitten.