The Reform UK MP under scrutiny, James McMurdock, has voluntarily surrendered the party whip following allegations about his Covid-19 business loans. The Sunday Times reported that he secured £70,000 through two companies, raising questions about their eligibility.
McMurdock, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, denies any wrongdoing. He insists his pre-Parliament business dealings followed all regulations. Nevertheless, he requested a temporary suspension of the whip as a “precautionary measure.” Meanwhile, Reform UK confirmed it will conduct an independent investigation.
According to reports, the Reform UK MP under scrutiny obtained loans via JAM Financial Limited and Gym Live Health and Fitness Limited. The Bounce Back Loan Scheme required businesses to meet specific turnover thresholds. However, records show JAM Financial had only one employee and minimal assets before the pandemic.
Additionally, Gym Live Health and Fitness was reportedly dormant until early 2020. Despite this, JAM Financial allegedly borrowed £50,000, which required a £200,000 turnover. Gym Live supposedly took £20,000, needing £80,000 in revenue. McMurdock maintains that professionals verified his compliance.
Reform UK’s chief whip, Lee Anderson, stated that McMurdock proactively stepped aside. The party plans an external-led inquiry, expected to take weeks. Meanwhile, McMurdock will sit as an independent, reducing Reform’s Commons presence to four MPs.
This is not the first time a Reform MP has faced suspension. In March, Rupert Lowe lost the whip over alleged threats, though prosecutors later dropped the case. The party regained a fifth MP in May when Sarah Pochin won the Runcorn by-election.
Before entering politics, the Reform UK MP under scrutiny worked in finance, including at Goldman Sachs and Lehman Brothers. His narrow 98-vote victory last July made his seat one of the most contested. Now, his political future hinges on the investigation’s outcome.
Reform UK has not yet announced who will lead the probe. However, the party emphasized McMurdock’s full cooperation. As the inquiry unfolds, questions remain about the loans’ legitimacy and their impact on his career.
For more political updates, visit London Pulse News.
