Police document non-crime hate incident from MP WhatsApp chats

Greater Manchester Police have recorded a 'non-crime hate incident' following offensive remarks made by former health minister Andrew Gwynne in a Labour WhatsApp group. Gwynne was dismissed after comments surfaced, including a joke about hoping a pensioner constituent would die before the next election, as well as antisemitic slights and inappropriate remarks about Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner. Oliver Ryan, another MP involved in the same group, is also facing scrutiny and has apologized for not challenging the offensive jokes. Both MPs' actions have drawn attention to the need for high standards of conduct among public officials, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer's office emphasizing the importance of accountability. The police's classification as a 'non-crime hate incident' serves to document the situation without criminal charges, reflecting concerns over hostility and prejudice. Gwynne expressed regret for his comments, acknowledging the consequences of his behavior.