Reform UK MP James McMurdock has suspended himself from the party whip following allegations about his business dealings during the Covid-19 pandemic. The MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock took the precautionary step after being contacted by journalists about the claims.
The Sunday Times published a story on Saturday alleging that two businesses connected to McMurdock took out Covid-19 loans totalling £70,000 during the pandemic. The allegations relate to "business propriety during the pandemic and before he became an MP", according to Reform's chief whip Lee Anderson.
MP defends business conduct
In a statement posted on X on Saturday afternoon, McMurdock said he had confirmed to journalists that "all my business dealings had always been conducted fully within the law and in compliance with all regulations". He added that "appropriately qualified professionals had reviewed all activity confirming the same".
McMurdock said he had asked to have the whip suspended temporarily "as a precautionary measure, and for the protection of ReformUK". Anderson confirmed that McMurdock has "agreed to co-operate in full with any investigation".
Investigation pending outcome
Anderson received a call from McMurdock advising that he had removed the party whip from himself pending the outcome of an investigation into allegations likely to be published by a national newspaper. Reform said it would not be commenting further for the moment.
McMurdock has represented South Basildon and East Thurrock since last July's general election. He won the seat by just 98 votes, beating Labour into second place and taking the constituency from the Conservatives.
(PA/London) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
