Ex political advisor admits fraud over expense claims
Matthew Torbitt, a former political advisor to a Labour MP, has pleaded guilty to fraud charges involving over £6,000 in false parliamentary travel and accommodation claims. The case has been referred to Snaresbrook Crown Court for sentencing.
Why it matters
This case highlights issues of accountability and integrity within parliamentary administrative systems and the misuse of public funds.
Image caption, Matthew Torbitt claimed for rail tickets and accommodation that were "not for Parliamentary purposes"
A former advisor to a Labour MP has admitted claiming fraudulent expenses on the Parliamentary travel booking system.
Matthew Torbitt worked for Bury South MP Christian Wakeford when, between August 2022 and September 2024, he claimed rail tickets that were "not for Parliamentary purposes", Thames Magistrates' Court heard.
He also admitted making a false claim for travel and accommodation expenses on 2 October 2024.
Torbitt, 35, has most recently worked as a political commentator and regularly appears on programmes including GB News, LBC, Sky News, BBC Newsnight, and Times Radio.
Prosecutor Maisha Mannan told the court the claims totalled more than £6,000, according to an early estimate by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), but the exact sum will be calculated at a later date.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in