Health Minister Andrew Gwynne has lost his position after a newspaper uncovered that he sent offensive and abusive WhatsApp messages. These messages insulted constituents, fellow MPs, and councillors.
Prime Minister’s Reaction
A government spokesperson confirmed that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is determined to uphold high standards for those in public office. He added that Starmer will take immediate action against any minister who fails to meet these standards. As a result, Gwynne’s dismissal was swift and unavoidable.
Gwynne’s Apology
Gwynne, via social media platform X, expressed regret for his “badly misjudged” comments. He said that he understood the decision to suspend him. Although he felt sad about the suspension, he promised to support the government in any way he could.
Labour Party’s Investigation
The Labour Party has administratively suspended Gwynne, 50, as part of its investigation into the WhatsApp messages. A party spokesperson said the investigation follows their established rules and procedures. They will determine if Gwynne’s actions breached party standards.
Controversial Messages
According to the Mail on Sunday, Gwynne’s offensive messages included a comment about hoping a 72-year-old woman would die after she complained about bin collections. He also made disturbing jokes about a constituent being hit by a truck. Additionally, Gwynne posted sexist remarks about Labour MP Angela Rayner and racist comments about Diane Abbott.
Conservative Party’s Response
The Conservative Party immediately responded, criticizing Gwynne’s remarks as evidence of “rot” within the Labour Party. Nigel Huddleston, the Conservative Party co-chair, called for Gwynne’s expulsion from the Labour Party. He said, “The Labour Party must act as there is clear contempt for pensioners.”
Gwynne’s Career and Recent Departures
Gwynne, a long-serving MP, was first elected in 2005. Following recent boundary changes, he became the MP for Gorton and Denton in 2024. After Labour won the government in July 2024, Gwynne was appointed as a junior minister in the Department of Health and Social Care.
His departure marks the third MP to leave the government since the summer election. Tulip Siddiq resigned in January due to allegations related to her aunt’s political movement in Bangladesh. Louise Haigh resigned in November after pleading guilty to a criminal offense involving the theft of a work mobile phone.
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