The UK’s Health Minister, Andrew Gwyn, has been dismissed following allegations that he sent objectionable messages on WhatsApp. This was announced on Saturday (8 February) by the country’s Prime Minister, Keir Starmer.
In addition, the accused minister has also been expelled from the Labour Party, according to a report by British media outlet the BBC on Saturday.
The BBC stated that after a newspaper report claimed that Health Minister Andrew Gwyn sent objectionable and insulting WhatsApp messages, he was dismissed from his position. Following a report on the matter by Mail on Sunday, the MP for Gorton and Denton was also expelled from the Labour Party.
It has been alleged that in these objectionable and insulting WhatsApp messages, Andrew Gwyn insulted voters, fellow MPs, and councilors.
A government spokesperson in the UK said that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is “firmly committed to maintaining high standards for those in government positions” and “will not hesitate to take action against any minister who fails to meet those standards.”
On the other hand, in a post on the social media platform X, Andrew Gwyn stated that it was “an extremely poor judgment” and apologized for any offense caused by his remarks. He further said that he understands the decision of the Prime Minister and the Labour Party, adding, “although the dismissal is very regrettable, I will support them in any way possible.”
A spokesperson for the Labour Party said that the 50-year-old Gwyn has been “administratively expelled” as a party member. He added that the decision was made after investigating the comments made in the WhatsApp group in accordance with the Labour Party’s rules and procedures.
The spokesperson further stated, “If it is proven that any individual has violated the high standards expected of them as a member of the Labour Party, swift action will be taken.”