MP Andrew Gwynne Under Investigation Following Offensive WhatsApp Messages

Andrew Gwynne, a former health minister, has found himself at the center of a parliamentary investigation following allegations of posting offensive messages in a WhatsApp group. The 50-year-old MP, who now represents Gorton and Denton as an Independent after being suspended by the Labour Party, is being scrutinized by Daniel Greenberg, the standards commissioner. The investigation, which began on February 18, 2025, focuses on whether Gwynne’s actions caused significant damage to the reputation of the House of Commons or its members. This probe is linked to paragraph 11 of the members’ code of conduct, which explicitly prohibits any actions that could harm the integrity of the House or its members.

Gwynne, who previously served as a health minister under Labour leader Keir Starmer, was removed from his position and suspended by the party after the Mail on Sunday reported that he had made offensive remarks in a WhatsApp group. The exchanges allegedly included a deeply insensitive comment about a pensioner constituent, with Gwynne reportedly joking that he hoped she would die before the next election. The WhatsApp group in question included Labour councillors, party officials, and at least one other MP, creating a wider context of concern about the culture within the group.

In response to the allegations, Gwynne issued a statement expressing his deep regret for his "badly misjudged comments" and apologized for any offense caused. He acknowledged the decisions made by Labour leader Keir Starmer and the party, stating that while he was "very sad" to have been suspended, he would support them in any way he could. Gwynne’s apology comes amid a broader Labour Party crackdown on misconduct, with another MP, 29-year-old Oliver Ryan, also suspended for his involvement in the same WhatsApp group.

The Labour Party’s swift action in suspending both Gwynne and Ryan reflects the high standards of conduct expected of its members. Keir Starmer has consistently emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity in public office, and his official spokesman reiterated that the Labour leader "will not hesitate to take action" against any minister or MP who fails to meet these standards. This stance aligns with Starmer’s broader commitment to upholding accountability and transparency within the party and government.

The incident has sparked a wider conversation about the responsibility of elected officials to conduct themselves with integrity, both in public and private settings. While the investigation into Gwynne’s conduct is ongoing, the case serves as a reminder of the challenges of maintaining high standards in modern politics, where even private communications can have significant public repercussions. The involvement of multiple MPs and officials in the WhatsApp group raises questions about the culture within political circles and the need for robust accountability mechanisms.

As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this situation will impact Gwynne’s political career and the broader perception of the Labour Party. However, one thing is clear: the case underscores the importance of ethical behavior among public officials and the consequences of failing to meet the high standards expected by the public and parliamentary authorities alike. For now, both Gwynne and Ryan must await the outcome of the investigation, which will determine whether they can continue to serve in their roles or face further disciplinary action.