Reform UK MP James McMurdock has suspended himself from the party and relinquished the party whip following his conviction for assaulting his girlfriend and separate allegations concerning his business affairs.
Mr. McMurdock, Member of Parliament for South Basildon and East Thurrock, was sentenced to eight months in prison after being found guilty of assaulting his former partner. During the trial, the court heard that the incident resulted in multiple injuries. Sentencing, Judge Caroline Hughes described the assault as “a sustained and serious attack.”
In addition to the criminal conviction, Mr. McMurdock is also facing allegations concerning his business activities. In a statement, Reform UK’s Chief Whip, Lee Anderson, said:
“I have today received a call from James McMurdock, who has advised me, as Chief Whip, that he has removed the party whip from himself pending the outcome of an investigation into allegations that are likely to be published by a national newspaper.
“The allegations relate to business propriety during the pandemic and prior to his time as a Member of Parliament.
“At Reform UK, we take these matters very seriously. James has agreed to cooperate fully with any investigation.
“We will not be commenting further at this moment.”
Mr. McMurdock joined Reform UK in 2024 after working in the banking sector. He was elected in the 2024 general election.
At present, Reform UK has made no further public comment regarding his position.
