Reform UK Member of Parliament James McMurdock has had the party whip withdrawn amid allegations concerning business conduct, the party has announced.
Chief Whip Lee Anderson stated that McMurdock, the MP representing South Basildon and East Thurrock, has “removed the party whip from himself” pending an inquiry into allegations recently published by The Sunday Times.
“Reform UK treats these matters with utmost seriousness, and Mr. McMurdock has pledged his full cooperation with any investigation,” Anderson affirmed.
The party has indicated that it will refrain from further comment at this time.
The BBC has reached out to Mr. McMurdock for a statement.
Anderson clarified that the allegations pertain to business propriety during the pandemic period, prior to Mr. McMurdock’s election to Parliament last year.
He secured the seat with a margin of 98 votes, surpassing Labour and unseating the Conservative incumbent.