An independent investigation has uncovered “vile” and “racist” remarks made by Labour councillors in a WhatsApp group, intensifying the fallout surrounding the party ahead of the Gorton and Denton by-election. This scandal has already prompted the suspension of former MP Andrew Gwynne, who expressed a morbid hope regarding a constituent’s health, and has now cast a shadow over Labour’s preparations to replace him.
Investigation Findings
The report, conducted by investigator Linda Comstive for Tameside Council, scrutinised the conduct of six councillors within the WhatsApp group named “Trigger Me Timbers”. The findings indicate a “complete disregard” for public standards, with one councillor deemed to have made several remarks that could be interpreted as racist. This controversy surfaces just weeks ahead of the crucial by-election scheduled for 26 February, raising concerns about the party’s internal divisions.
The investigation was initiated following a formal complaint regarding Gwynne and other party members making “disgusting, racist, sexist, homophobic and vile comments”. Eleven Labour councillors were suspended over these revelations, but the report focused primarily on six individuals, including Gwynne’s wife, Alison Gwynne, and councillors Brenda Warrington, George Newton, Claire Reid, Jack Naylor, and George Jones.
Disturbing Remarks
Among the most shocking findings was that of Councillor Naylor, who made an antisemitic joke by altering the lyrics of an Elton John song to include a derogatory reference to Jewish people. He has since issued a full apology, taking responsibility for his actions. Councillor Newton was also cited for using language that “a reasonable person would find racist”, though he defended his comments as “private jokes”.
The WhatsApp exchanges also featured Gwynne referring to an individual as “too Jewish” and included derogatory comments about notable Labour figures, including Angela Rayner and Dianne Abbott. The toxic atmosphere within the group reportedly left an elderly Labour supporter distraught, illustrating the far-reaching consequences of these comments.
Community Impact
Local residents expressed deep concern over the climate fostered by the councillors’ remarks. One charity worker revealed that an elderly, neurodivergent Labour supporter was left emotionally distressed after being targeted with derogatory insults from the WhatsApp group, exacerbated by bullying from local youths. The worker highlighted a pervasive fear among constituents about losing essential services if they did not support Labour.
While Councillors Gwynne and Reid have been suspended for six months, Gwynne recently apologised for the chat’s content upon his resignation from Parliament. The Labour Party has yet to provide an official comment on the findings.
Why it Matters
This scandal is not merely an internal party issue; it threatens to undermine Labour’s credibility in a critical electoral context. With divisions running deep and public trust waning, the party must navigate this crisis carefully to restore its reputation and retain support ahead of the by-election. The findings serve as a stark reminder of the need for accountability and integrity in public life, especially as Labour seeks to position itself as a viable alternative to the current government.
