Hillary Clinton speaks out against Harvey Weinstein over sexual harassment allegations

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Hillary Clinton has responded to allegations of sexual harassment against Hollywood producer and Democratic campaign contributor Harvey Weinstein.

Ms Clinton said in a statement that she is "shocked and appalled by the revelations about Harvey Weinstein."

The influential Hollywood producer has been accused by several women - including actress Ashley Judd, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Angelina Jolie - of sexual harassment over a period of at least two decades.

According to a bombshell New York Times report, Mr Weinstein settled lawsuits with at least eight women who worked for he and his brother Bob’s production company or in the film industry.

Mr Weinstein's spokeswoman, Sallie Hofmeister, told the newspaper: “Any allegations of non-consensual sex are unequivocally denied by Mr Weinstein. [He] has further confirmed that there were never any acts of retaliation against any women for refusing his advances. He will not be available for further comments, as he is taking the time to focus on his family, on getting counseling and rebuilding his life.”

Ms Clinton's statement said: "The behaviour described by women coming forward cannot be tolerated. Their courage and the support of others is critical in helping to stop this kind of behaviour."

The Clintons have long been associated with the blockbuster producer, going all the way back to their time in the White House.

He contributed on several occasions to both husband and wife's various campaigns from 1995 to 2016 according to the nonpartisan Center For Responsive Politics.

The Weinstein family has given more $1.4m (£1.07m) in political contributions since the 1992 election cycle and wielded influence among film elite, hosting several fundraisers for the Clintons and other notable Democratic candidates and the national party committee.

Democratic National Committee (DNC), the party's Senate and House campaign committees (DCCC), and prominent figures like Senators Chuck Schumer, Elizabeth Warren, Kristen Gillibrand, and Al Franken among others have all said they will be donating Mr Weinstein's political contributions received by their campaigns to charities helping women.

Ms Clinton's statement did not address the issue of contributions.