A Conservative MP is under scrutiny by the party following accusations of misusing campaign funds.
Mark Menzies is alleged to have requested money from his former campaign manager, claiming it was to settle a distressing situation where he was reportedly detained overnight in a flat, as reported by The Times.
Pending an investigation, Menzies has been suspended from the party.
Representing the Fylde constituency, Menzies has refuted the claims, stating he vehemently denies them.
Reportedly, Menzies contacted his former campaign manager at 03:15 one December morning, urgently seeking £5,000, which eventually rose to £6,500, citing it as a matter of “life and death.”
The sum was purportedly reimbursed from campaign donations after being initially paid from the personal savings of Menzies’ office manager.
A source close to Menzies informed The Times that the payment was made out of fear of potential consequences for refusal, lacking adequate personal funds.
While Menzies offered to repay the funds, it’s claimed that local Tories controlling the account advised against it.
The Times also revealed a previous instance four years ago when Menzies reportedly sought £3,000 from campaign funds to cover medical expenses, allegedly assuring repayment later.
However, a source close to Menzies disputed the assertion that it was the MP’s idea to use campaign funds for medical bills.
Subsequently, Menzies is said to have received further payments totaling £11,000, none of which were repaid, according to The Times.
The Conservative Party became aware of these allegations in January when the former campaign manager reported the incidents to the chief whip, Simon Hart.
Menzies stated to The Times that he has complied fully with declaration regulations and refrained from further comment due to the ongoing investigation.
A Conservative Party spokesperson confirmed the investigation and emphasized the confidentiality of the process.
With the suspension of the whip, Menzies is effectively expelled from the parliamentary party unless the suspension is lifted.