Labour is facing yet another controversy as a second MP has been suspended over offensive messages in a private WhatsApp group.
Oliver Ryan, a 29-year-old MP for Burnley, has lost the Labour whip and will now sit as an independent in Parliament.
His suspension follows the removal of former health minister Andrew Gwynne, who was also involved in the same chat.
The group, known as “Trigger Me Timbers,” has come under fire for hosting offensive, homophobic, racist, and sexist remarks.
The scandal has sent shockwaves through the Labour Party, raising serious questions about the conduct of its members.
Police Investigating WhatsApp Messages
Authorities have confirmed that they have received multiple complaints about the messages exchanged in the group.
While the police have not launched a criminal investigation, they have recorded the incident as a “non-crime hate incident” and are conducting preliminary inquiries.
The nature of the messages, which targeted individuals based on race, gender, and sexuality, has sparked outrage from both within and outside the party.
Labour Takes Action Amid Growing Pressure
A Labour spokesperson confirmed that Ryan has been “administratively suspended” while an investigation is underway.
The party emphasized its commitment to upholding high standards and swiftly addressing any misconduct.
“As soon as this group was brought to our attention, a thorough investigation was launched,” the spokesperson stated.
However, critics argue that Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer needs to take stronger action.
The Conservative Party has called for both Ryan and Gwynne to be expelled entirely, accusing Labour of attempting to “sweep the issue under the rug.”
Inappropriate Comments and Online Abuse Exposed
The leaked messages reveal a troubling culture within the group.
In addition to homophobic jokes about a fellow Labour MP, Ryan also made offensive remarks about a local party leader, Colin Bailey, a long-time community worker and lollipop man.
The group contained racist and antisemitic messages, some of which were reportedly made by Gwynne.
Ryan, who has sent over 2,000 messages in the chat, is now facing intense scrutiny.
Before his suspension, Home Office minister Dame Angela Eagle condemned the remarks but insisted that “anyone can make mistakes.”
This has led to further backlash, with critics demanding more decisive action from Labour leadership.
Political Fallout and Public Reaction
The scandal has placed Starmer’s leadership under pressure.
Tory MP Richard Holden accused Labour of failing to uphold integrity within its ranks.
“With two MPs suspended in just two days for vile remarks, the rot inside Labour is clear,” he stated.
The Labour Party’s internal response has been mixed.
While some members insist that the ongoing investigation will lead to accountability, others worry that the situation could damage public trust in the party.
Ryan’s Apology and Future in Politics
Following the backlash, Ryan issued an apology, acknowledging that some of his comments were inappropriate.
He expressed regret for not speaking out against offensive remarks made in the chat and admitted that he had also participated in some of the conversations.
“I deeply regret my comments and would not make them today,” Ryan stated. “I will cooperate fully with the Labour Party’s investigation.”
Despite his apology, questions remain about his political future.
Having spent nearly a decade as a Labour councillor before entering Parliament, Ryan now faces uncertainty about whether he will be allowed to rejoin the party.
What Happens Next?
Labour’s investigation into the WhatsApp group continues, with expectations that more names could emerge in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, Downing Street has announced ministerial changes following Gwynne’s removal, with Ashley Dalton stepping in as the new health minister.
As the scandal unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Labour will take harsher measures against those involved—or if the issue will continue to haunt Starmer’s leadership.
The public and political opponents will be watching closely to see how the party handles this crisis.
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