A social media video reveals a man who identifies himself as the Jewish Labour MP Ivor Caplin being handcuffed by police.

Sussex Police have confirmed they have arrested the 66-year-old Caplin on suspicion of engaging in sexual communication with a young boy.

Video footage of the arrest has been posted online and Caplin who was wearing a black trench coat and a red cap can be seen, being held by police officers.

Police then appear to take Caplin’s phone and put it inside an evidence bag.

A police spokesperson said: They were aware of footage circulating on social media showing the MP in Brighton being detained on suspicion of engaging in sexual communication with a child.

Officers can confirm that the 66-year-old MP was arrested on Saturday January 11 and currently remains in custody.

“This is an ongoing and active investigation.”

Caplin represented his constituency between 1997 and 2005 and was also the former chair of the Israel lobby group the JLM, which is closely linked to the Israeli embassy 

He first was elected as a member of Parliament for Hove in 1997.

Then in 2001 he became an assistant Labour Government whip, and then a junior defence minister and minister for Veterans at the Ministry of Defence.