Former Labour MP Retains Parliamentary Access Despite Ongoing Sleaze Investigation
Andrew Gwynne, a former Labour MP who stepped down from the House of Commons earlier this year, continues to enjoy privileged access to the parliamentary estate through a coveted security pass. This access persists despite him still being subject to an active investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, raising significant questions about the oversight of such privileges.
Eligibility and Controversy Surrounding Ex-MP Passes
Mr Gwynne is among nearly 500 former MPs who hold these security passes, which are granted to those who served in the Commons for at least six years. The passes allow unescorted roaming of the parliamentary estate, access to meetings, and use of subsidised bars and restaurants during specified hours. However, authorities retain the discretion to refuse passes in certain circumstances, making Mr Gwynne's case particularly contentious given the unresolved probe into his conduct.
The investigation, initiated in February last year, centres on whether Mr Gwynne's actions caused "significant damage to the reputation of the House." This followed his admission of making "badly misjudged" comments in a WhatsApp group chat named 'Trigger Me Timbers,' which reportedly included sexist, racist, and anti-Semitic remarks. The controversy led to his dismissal as a health minister and suspension by the Labour Party.
Health Grounds and Exit Package
Mr Gwynne resigned as MP for Gorton and Denton in January, citing health reasons. He stated that he had "suffered significant ill-health over most of the 21 years I've served as an MP," which was "greatly exacerbated by the impact of last year's events." A note from his GP to the Commons authorities confirmed he could not "safely return to work as an MP." Upon his departure, it was reported that he secured an exit package worth around £1 million, with Commons sources suggesting payments until pension age, after which he would receive a full parliamentary pension.
Growing Concerns Over Lobbying and Access
The issue of former MPs holding parliamentary passes has become increasingly controversial, with concerns about potential lobbying of former colleagues, even though such activities are barred under Commons rules. The number of passes has surged in recent years, notably after the 2024 general election, despite efforts to tighten eligibility. Currently, 468 former MPs hold passes, up from 306 in January 2023.
In a related case, former Labour MP Chris Williamson had his parliamentary pass suspended in February 2023 after concerns were raised about his work for Iranian state TV. The House of Commons' Administration Committee reconsidered his access rights due to his role as a host on PressTV, highlighting that passes can be revoked under scrutiny.
Political Fallout and By-Election Dynamics
Following Mr Gwynne's resignation, Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham attempted to stand as Labour's candidate in the by-election to replace him in Gorton and Denton. However, allies of Prime Minister Keir Starmer blocked this move, and the Green Party ultimately won the parliamentary contest in February. Allies of Mr Burnham denied any "pact" with a sitting MP to facilitate his return to Westminster, where he could have mounted a leadership challenge against Sir Keir.
The office of the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards has confirmed that Mr Gwynne remains under investigation despite his departure from the Commons. A Commons spokesperson emphasised that "eligibility is rigorously scrutinised and processes are in place to ensure applications can only be made by those with an approved requirement."
This situation underscores ongoing debates about accountability and transparency in parliamentary privileges, particularly when misconduct allegations remain unresolved.
