A former aide to David Cameron has pleaded not guilty to possessing and making indecent images of children.

Patrick Rock, 63, was the deputy head of the prime minister's policy unit and considered a key member of the inner circle at Downing Street.

Mr Rock spoke to confirm his name and deny seven charges. The offences relate to more than 60 images of children aged between 10 and 14.

Judge Alistair McCreath gave him bail at London's Southwark Crown Court.

Mr Rock is accused of six counts of making indecent photographs of children aged approximately between 10 and 13. He is also charged with one count of possessing 56 indecent images of children aged approximately between 10 and 14.

It is alleged that the offences were committed between 31 July and 31 August 2013.

Mr Rock, of Fulham, south-west London, but living in the US until recently, was given bail until the next hearing in the case on 27 February.

Mr Rock, who was arrested in February, had advised the government on measures to restrict internet pornography.