Top Tory donor quits over ‘Gropers’ Gala’ as Presidents Club forced to close
A TOP Tory donor quit over the “Gropers’ Gala” charity ball earlier today — as his Presidents Club was forced to close.
Organiser David Meller left as education aide to No10 amid fury at the men-only guests’ sleazy treatment of women hostesses.
Children’s minister Nadhim Zahawi faced calls to resign as PM Theresa May ordered an investigation into his conduct.
Two children’s hospitals said they will return £1million in donations to the charity.
A Labour MP demanded a police probe, saying there was revulsion at what were “crimes against women and a decent society”.
The MP, Christian Matheson, added: “Plenty of men share my bewilderment at what’s gone on.”
Make-up artist Julia Snowdon said she was so appalled by wealthy guests’ behaviour at previous dinners she declined to work there this year.
She tweeted: “So pleased it’s finally come out. I was always appalled at the lack of prep some of the girls had. Hoping they wouldn’t notice a man’s hand up their skirt…all of it is true.”
Mr Meller has extensive links to cabinet ministers, including Mrs May.
There is no suggestion he acted improperly.
He was made a CBE in the New Year Honours and has donated at least £67,000 to the Conservatives since 2012.
He bankrolled Michael Gove’s leadership campaign and has backed MP Richard Harrington, a major ally of Mrs May.
The PM was said to be appalled by the reports and thought Mr Meller’s decision to quit was the “right one”.
Sources said she will consider changes to the law to ensure women are not put in jeopardy at male-only events.
Meanwhile, Chief Whip Julian Smith, who acts for the PM, summoned Mr Zahawi to No10 to explain himself.
Sources suggested he would face the sack if unable to give a full account about what he knew about the sordid nights.
Mr Zahawi has said he left the event early.
He told The Sun he behaved appropriately throughout.
The Presidents Club says it has raised £20million in its 33 years.
In a statement it said: “The trustees have decided that the club will not host any further fundraising events.
“Remaining funds will be distributed in an efficient manner to children’s charities and it will then be closed.”
Evelina London Children’s Hospital is returning £665,000 it has received since 1998.
Great Ormond Street Hospital is also handing back donations.
Host David Walliams said he was appalled by the claims but had not witnessed anything.
He said he would return his fee.
Labour MP Jess Phillips branded the event a “lady zoo”, saying “women were bought as bait for rich men”.
Boris Johnson said he knew nothing about being included as a lunch date in the auction.
The Bank of England said it was unaware tea with Governor Mark Carney was a prize.
The Charities Commission is probing harassment claims.
The Met said it had not received reports of any offences.
The Dress Code
ALL 130 hostesses at the ball had to be thin, pretty and at least 5ft 6in tall — with matching black bras, undies and stilettos.
They had their hair and make-up done professionally beforehand, and each wore a skimpy black dress, like the one posed in by our model.
A see-though mesh panel also showed off the girls’ side boobs and midriff. Five wore red stilettos for “extra duties”.