UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Labour has suspended MP Oliver Ryan after his involvement in a WhatsApp group with offensive comments. An inquiry into the group’s activities is ongoing.
Mr Ryan is the second MP to face penalties following the revelation of an alleged WhatsApp group chat.
Why was Labour MP Oliver Ryan suspended?
The Labour MP for Burnley was sacked after the controversial details of the Trigger Me Timbers group were revealed, including alleged sexist and racist comments.
The party took decisive action against Mr Ryan after a group disclosed information about inappropriate comments, which mainly consisted of councillors and party members from Greater Manchester.
On Monday afternoon, Mr Ryan had a meeting with Labour’s chief whip, Alan Campbell. His suspension from the party means he has been deprived of the Labour whip in Parliament.
What did a Labour spokesperson say about Oliver Ryan’s suspension?
A representative from Labour stated,
“As part of our WhatsApp group investigation, Oliver Ryan has been administratively suspended as a member of the Labour Party.”
Referring to the WhatsApp group, the spokesperson stated that once it came to light, a prompt inquiry was initiated and is continuing according to the party’s guidelines. They also affirmed that the party would always take urgent action if any member breached the standards of the Labour Party.
How many Labour MPs have been suspended over WhatsApp messages?
As of now, over the alleged WhatsApp group Trigger Me Timbers, two Labour MPs have been removed from the party. On Saturday, Andrew Gwynne was dismissed after it was revealed that he made inappropriate remarks about pensioners.
Both MPs have publicly apologized for their racist comments. Last night, Mr Ryan issued a statement saying he was a member of a group created by his MP and ex-employer, Andrew Gwynne, between 2019 and early 2022.
He stated,
“I did not see every message, but I accept responsibility for not being more proactive in challenging what was said. I also made some comments myself which I deeply regret and would not make today and for that, I wholeheartedly apologise. I will co-operate fully with the Labour Party’s investigation.”
Former health minister, Mr Gwynne, also publicly expressed regret for his remarks about older constituents and Angela Rayner.
Why did police record “non-crime hate incident” over Gwynne’s WhatsApps?
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that a hate-related incident has been officially recorded regarding the WhatsApp chat, and officers are now conducting inquiries.
According to a representative from GMP Police, a few complaints have been received regarding messages from a WhatsApp group.
The representative for Greater Manchester Police stated, “A non-crime hate incident has been recorded, and we are in contact with our Parliamentary liaison as part of our initial enquiries.”
What is the MP’s response to the WhatsApp scandal?
The Tory party demanded a broader inquiry. Richard Holden, the shadow paymaster general, stressed that Keir Starmer should prioritize revealing the truth behind the hateful comments made by senior Labour figures.
Matthew Pennycook, the housing minister, expressed that the language the MP allegedly used in his messages was “entirely unacceptable” and, in certain instances, “highly troubling.”
Speaking to Times Radio, Angela Eagle expressed her surprise at the controversial posts.
She stated, “I think anyone can make mistakes and when they make mistakes they apologise. We’ve seen the apologies from both men.”
How did Number 10 respond to the WhatsApp messages by Labour MPs?
A Number 10 spokesperson stated, “The prime minister is determined to uphold high standards of conduct in public office. He will not hesitate to take action against any minister who fails to meet these standards, as he has in this case.”
Labour MPs also praised Keir Starmer for a swift action against the MPs.