Former X Factor judge Tulisa Contostavlos has been charged with offences relating to Class A drugs, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has confirmed.

Chief Crown Prosecutor Baljit Ubhey said: "The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised the Metropolitan Police Service to charge Tulisa Contostavlos, 25, with being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

"This charge relates to an investigation by The Sun newspaper between early March 2013 and 23 May 2013 which resulted in the supply of Class A drugs to an investigative journalist.

"This decision to prosecute was taken in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors. We have determined that there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction and that a prosecution is in the public interest.

"Ms Contostavlos will appear before Westminster Magistrates' Court on 19 December 2013.

"This defendant is now the subject of criminal proceedings and has the right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that nothing should be reported which could in any way prejudice these proceedings."

Tulisa’s lawyer has confirmed that she will not plead guilty to the charges against her and has called into question the conduct of the The Sun.