Labour MP suspended as party launches investigation into Covid loans
Labour MP Bayo Alaba has been suspended from his party while an investigation takes place regarding his handling of Covid-19 business loans. Alaba has referred himself to the party and denies any wrongdoing.
Why it matters
The investigation concerns the integrity of elected officials regarding the use of public funds during the pandemic.
By Harry Farley , Political correspondent and Kate Whannel , Political reporter Published 22 minutes ago A Labour MP has been suspended from the party after a newspaper report questioned whether he had tried to avoid repaying a government Covid loan.
Bayo Alaba referred himself to the Labour Party over the issue and an internal investigation has been launched.
The MP for Southend East and Rochford has also had the whip suspended - meaning he will now sit as an independent MP - although it is understood the investigation does not at this stage imply any wrongdoing.
A Labour Party spokesperson said: "Bayo Alaba MP has referred himself to the Labour Party so that these matters can be investigated in line with the party's rules."
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