An MP who was sacked as a well being minister after he reportedly posted offensive messages in a WhatsApp group is being investigated by parliament’s requirements watchdog.
Andrew Gwynne, who was additionally suspended from the Labour Occasion earlier this month, is listed among the many allegations below investigation by Daniel Greenberg, the requirements commissioner.
In response to the parliament web site, Mr Gwynne, who now sits because the Unbiased MP for Gorton and Denton, is being investigated particularly for “actions causing significant damage to the reputation of the House as a whole, or of its members generally”.
Mr Gwynne, 50, reportedly ‘joked’ a few pensioner constituent, saying he hoped she died earlier than the following election, in accordance with the Mail on Sunday.
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The WhatsApp chat contained Labour councillors, social gathering officers and a minimum of one different MP.
In an announcement following the revelations, Mr Gwynne mentioned he deeply regretted his “badly misjudged comments” and apologised for any offence triggered.
He mentioned: “I’ve served the Labour Party all my life and it was a huge honour to be appointed a minister by Keir Starmer.
“I solely perceive the choices the PM and the social gathering have taken and, whereas very unhappy to have been suspended, will help them in any manner I can.”
The investigation into Mr Gwynne was opened on 18 February 2025 and is related to paragraph 11 of the members’ code of conduct which states MPs “shall never undertake any action which would cause significant damage to the reputation and integrity of the House of Commons as a whole, or of its members generally”.
In addition to taking motion towards Mr Gwynne, the Labour Occasion additionally suspended newly-elected Burnley MP Oliver Ryan over feedback made within the WhatsApp group.
The 29-year-old apologised and mentioned he “deeply regrets” the remarks he made, which a authorities supply mentioned had been “unacceptable and deeply disappointing”.
Quantity 10 additionally mentioned the prime minister “will not hesitate to take action” when ministers don’t uphold excessive requirements.
Requested if Sir Keir Starmer anticipated ministers to name out derogatory remarks in WhatsApp teams, his official spokesman advised reporters: “He’s made clear… his determination to uphold high standards of conduct in public office and lead government in service of working people.
The spokesman added Sir Keir “won’t hesitate to take motion towards any minister who fails to fulfill these requirements, as he has completed on this case”.
