MP Peter Bone expelled from Conservative party over bullying and sexual misconduct
Peter Bone, a long-standing Conservative MP, has had the Tory whip removed after being found in breach of bullying and sexual misconduct rules. The Chief Whip, Simon Hart, made the decision to expel Bone from the parliamentary party following a report by the Independent Expert Panel. A spokesperson stated that the Chief Whip had removed the conservative whip from Bone MP based on the findings of the report.
Six-week suspension for severe bullying and indecent exposure
Parliament's sleaze watchdog found Bone guilty of severe bullying and indecent exposure, resulting in a six-week suspension. The bombshell report from the Independent Expert Panel revealed that Bone exposed himself to a male member of staff while they were both trapped in a hotel room in Madrid in 2013. The report also outlined that Bone had committed numerous acts of bullying and one act of sexual misconduct against the same staffer in 2012 and 2013.
Denial of allegations and plans to continue in role
Despite the findings, Bone denied all the allegations levelled against him. In a statement, he maintained that none of the misconduct allegations ever took place and described them as false and without foundation. Bone also highlighted that the ex-employee made the allegations years after leaving his employment and never raised them during their time working together. He vowed to continue in his role as an MP.
Potential recall petition and by-election if suspension approved
If Parliament approves the recommended suspension, Bone could face a recall petition from his constituents, which could potentially trigger a by-election in his Wellingborough seat. However, Bone expressed his intention to continue in his role despite the potential consequences.
Details of the allegations and criticism of the investigation
The report outlined several shocking allegations upheld by sleaze chiefs, including incidents of violence, shouting, swearing, mocking, belittling, humiliating behavior, and ostracism. One specific incident involved Bone repeatedly physically striking and throwing things at the complainant. Another incident described an unwanted and humiliating ritual imposed by Bone, where his staffer was forced to put his hands in his lap when Bone was dissatisfied with his work. Bone also repeatedly pressured the complainant to give him massages in the office. Bone criticized the Panel's investigation, asserting that it was flawed and procedurally unfair.
Related by-elections and replacement of other MPs
These developments come as Rishi Sunak faces potential defeat in two showdown by-elections this Thursday. Constituents in Tamworth will vote to replace Chris Pincher, the disgraced ex-Deputy Chief Whip who was exposed for groping two men at a private members' club. In Mid Bedfordshire, voters will take to the ballots to replace Nadine Dorries, Boris Johnson's former top lieutenant, who stepped down in protest at the ex-PM's removal from No10.
