A Conservative Member of Parliament has been suspended pending an investigation into allegations of misusing campaign funds, following claims that he made a late-night phone
call requesting money to settle debts.
Reportedly, the MP contacted an elderly party volunteer at 03:15, asserting that he was trapped in a flat and urgently needed £5,000, stating it was a matter of "life and death," according to the Times.
The Conservative whip has been withdrawn from Mr. Menzies, who represents Fylde in Lancashire, while the party conducts an inquiry. Mr. Menzies denies the allegations, stating that he strongly disputes them.
It's alleged that Mr. Menzies made a similar request four years ago, seeking £3,000 from campaign funds to cover medical expenses, promising repayment later.
The Conservative Party became aware of the allegations in January when the former campaign manager reported the incidents to the chief whip, Simon Hart.
Mr. Menzies has agreed to surrender the Conservative whip pending the outcome of the investigation. He maintains his innocence and pledges full compliance with disclosure rules.
In response to the situation, a Conservative Party spokesman emphasized the confidentiality of the investigation process.
Defense Secretary Grant Shapps confirmed that the Conservative Party has been aware of some of the allegations against Mark Menzies for some time. He stressed the importance of swift action in such cases and highlighted the need to support individuals facing mental health challenges.
The suspension of the whip means that Mr. Menzies is effectively expelled from the parliamentary party and must sit as an independent until the conclusion of the investigation. Photo by Richard Townshend, Wikimedia commons.