Labour MP Andrew Gwynne faces investigation over offensive WhatsApp messages

In February 2025, Andrew Gwynne, a former minister and MP for Gorton and Denton, was suspended from the Labour Party and began facing a parliamentary standards investigation. The investigation was prompted by revelations of his participation in a WhatsApp group where offensive messages, deemed racist and sexist, were shared. The Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards initiated the investigation based on allegations that his behavior caused significant damage to the reputation of the House and its members. Gwynne’s comments reportedly included derogatory remarks about a pensioner constituent, alongside sexist comments directed at deputy prime minister Angela Rayner and racist remarks about veteran Labour MP Diane Abbott. This incident not only led to Gwynne's suspension but also ensnared other Labour officials associated with the WhatsApp group, prompting a broader party-wide response. Labour suspended a number of councillors including Gwynne's wife, demonstrating their commitment to addressing the alleged conduct within their ranks. This decisive action is seen as a critical measure to protect the party's image, especially as they prepare for the possibility of a challenging by-election, which could be influenced by the rise of opposition parties seeking to capitalize on this scandal. In his defense, Gwynne expressed regret for his comments and acknowledged the appropriateness of the disciplinary actions taken against him by both the Labour Party and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The standards watchdog has the authority to recommend longer suspensions for MPs, with any suspension exceeding ten sitting days leading to potential recall petitions within their constituencies. Given Gwynne's recent report of a comfortable electoral majority, the subsequent fallout from this investigation could result in a significant challenge for Labour’s future electoral standing in Gorton and Denton. This controversy underscores the scrutiny MPs are under regarding their conduct in public forums, including platforms like WhatsApp. Starmer’s leadership emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards among party members, especially as the implications of improper conduct can reverberate through a party struggling to uphold its image against rising criticism. With the investigation ongoing, there are likely to be further developments that could affect Gwynne's political career as well as the organization of the Labour Party, amidst a backdrop of increasing political polarization within the UK.