Three Labour councillors in Tameside have resigned from their executive roles after a leaked WhatsApp chat revealed offensive and abusive messages involving senior party members. The scandal also led to the sacking of Health Minister Andrew Gwynne, MP for Gorton and Denton, after it was reported that he sent messages insulting constituents, fellow MPs, and councillors.
The Mail on Sunday first exposed the messages, prompting councillors Claire Reid, Jack Naylor, and George Newton to step down from their executive positions while an internal Labour Party investigation takes place.
Labour Faces Internal Fallout as MP Apologizes
Burnley MP Oliver Ryan, who was also a member of the WhatsApp group, issued a public apology for his past involvement. Ryan, who served as a Tameside councillor between 2019 and early 2022, said some of the comments in the group were “completely unacceptable” and condemned them outright.
A spokesperson for Tameside Labour confirmed that the three councillors had voluntarily stepped down pending the outcome of the investigation. The Labour Party has yet to announce what disciplinary action, if any, will be taken.
WhatsApp Scandal Sparks Police Investigation
Independent Tameside councillor Kaleel Khan confirmed that he had reported the messages as a hate crime after multiple constituents expressed concerns. He told the BBC that some of the messages included offensive remarks about women, Black people, Jewish people, and even constituents.
Khan also called on Tameside Borough Council to launch a formal investigation into the councillors involved. The Greater Manchester Police have yet to comment on whether they will pursue a criminal investigation.
What’s Next for Labour Amid Growing Political Fallout?
This scandal comes at a challenging time for Labour, as the party seeks to maintain public confidence ahead of upcoming elections. The leaked messages have reignited discussions on internal party culture, accountability, and the use of social media among elected officials.
The outcome of the Labour Party’s investigation will determine whether further disciplinary action or resignations will follow. With growing pressure from constituents and political opponents, Labour’s response to this crisis will likely shape how the party manages future controversies.
