UK Minister Andrew Gwynne Fired Over Controversial WhatsApp

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has dismissed Andrew Gwynne from his ministerial position following controversial WhatsApp messages deemed to be a serious misjudgment.

A government spokesperson emphasized Starmer’s commitment to maintaining high ethical standards among public officials.

“The Prime Minister will not hesitate to take action against any minister who fails to meet the standards expected of them,” the spokesperson stated.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gwynne apologized for any offense caused by his messages.

“I deeply regret my badly misjudged remarks. I understand the decision, though I am disappointed. I remain committed to supporting the Prime Minister and the Labour Party,” he wrote.

A Labour Party spokesperson confirmed that Gwynne, 50, has been suspended from the party while an internal investigation is conducted.

“Swift action will be taken if individuals are found to have breached the high standards expected of them as Labour Party members,” the spokesperson added.

According to reports, Gwynne allegedly made inappropriate comments about a 72-year-old woman in a WhatsApp group and was accused of offensive remarks about Labour MP Diane Abbott and Deputy Leader Angela Rayner.

The Mail on Sunday reported that Gwynne expressed frustration over a local resident’s complaint about bin collection and allegedly made remarks that were perceived as misogynistic and racially insensitive.

The controversy has raised concerns over internal discipline within the Labour Party, as Starmer seeks to enforce strict ethical guidelines among members.

The party has assured that the investigation will be handled with transparency and that appropriate action will be taken if necessary.