Five people arrested after former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith allegedly hit on head with traffic cone

Five people have been arrested after former Tory party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith was allegedly assaulted by being hit on the head with a traffic cone.

The senior Conservative has said he was pursued by a group on his way to a Brexit talk in Manchester on Monday.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said three men and two women were arrested after reports of an assault at around 4pm on Portland Street.

Sir Iain was on his way to the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel where he was involved in a talk with Brexit minister Lord Frost.

A friend of Sir Iain said he was walking with his wife Betsy at the time of the incident and escaped without injury.

GMP said officers were on the scene within three minutes after receiving reports of an assault.

“There aren’t believed to be any serious injuries, and following a short foot pursuit three men and two women have been arrested in connection with it, and remain in custody for questioning,” a statement said.

“Enquiries are ongoing.”

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