Ellie Ames 11 February 2025

Three Tameside councillors ‘step away’ over WhatsApp scandal

Three Tameside councillors ‘step away’ over WhatsApp scandal image
Andrew Gwynne. Image: gov.uk

Three councillors will ‘step away’ from their roles at Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council after they were caught up in a scandal over a leaked WhatsApp chat.

It comes after the Mail on Sunday reported that health minister Andrew Gwynne had sent offensive messages on the group chat, which insulted constituents, fellow MPs and councillors, and included allegedly racist and sexist comments.

He has been sacked from his role and suspended from the Labour Party. Labour has also suspended Burnley MP Oliver Ryan, who was a member of the same WhatsApp group.

Councillors Claire Reid, Jack Naylor and George Newton have decided to ‘step away from their executive duties at Tameside Council whilst an investigation by the Labour Party is underway’, a spokesperson for Tameside Labour said.

Independent councillor Kaleel Khan said he had made a ‘hate crime report’ to the police after constituents contacted him with concerns about the messages.

Cllr Khan has also asked the council to investigate the actions of councillors in the WhatsApp group.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Project Manager (Regeneration)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
£49,359 to £56,057 per annum (pay award pending) – Grade 9
With ambitious goals ahead, we need dedicated individuals who are ready to make a real impact as part of our expanding Housing team Leeds / Hybrid
Recuriter: West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerPermanent, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

HR Advisor - Pay & Policy (Career Grade)

Wakefield Council
Grade 9 - Grade 10, Career Grade, 24 hours, Permanent
Are you ready to make a difference and shape policies that foster a high performing and inclusive workplace? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Leisure Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£12,013.50 - £12,202.00, Grade 3, 18.5 hours, Permanent
Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council
Linkedin Banner