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

Social Worker

North Yorkshire Council
£38,220 - £42,839 per annum, pro rata
In our Family Assessment and Support Team, you will work with a range of children and their families, carers and networks. Richmond, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Relief Children's Residential Edge of Care Worker

North Yorkshire Council
£16.35 - £17.85
Here in North Yorkshire, we have several services that support and empower children. Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Chief Executive

Leicestershire County Council
Up to £234,171
This is a rare opportunity to lead a council with both strength and ambition at a time of change. Leicestershire
Recuriter: Leicestershire County Council

Director of Adults and Integrated Commissioning

Kent County Council
up to £129,530 per annum
A career-defining role at the heart of adult social care transformation. Kent
Recuriter: Kent County Council

Part Time Finance Administrator

Essex County Council
Up to £25081.00 per annum + Pro Rata
Part Time Finance AdministratorPermanent, Part Time£25,081 per annum, full time equivalentLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner