Former Conservative MP Mark Menzies has decided to step down from both his party and parliamentary roles following an internal investigation uncovering a “pattern of behavior” that failed to meet the expected standards for MPs.
Representing Fylde, Menzies announced his decision not to seek reelection amidst allegations of misusing campaign funds, now under scrutiny by Lancashire police.
While the Tory party’s internal probe found no evidence of party fund misuse, it acknowledged that Menzies’ conduct may have fallen below the standards required, potentially breaching principles of public life.
Labour criticized the Tories for delays in addressing the claims, urging an independent inquiry by the prime minister’s adviser on ministers’ interests.
A Conservative spokesperson refuted allegations of inaction, affirming the party’s thorough examination limited to Conservative funds.
Following allegations published by The Times linking Menzies to using political donations for personal expenses, he resigned from the Tory whip and was suspended as a government trade envoy.
His former campaign manager expressed disappointment after raising concerns with the chief whip in January, suggesting a failure in party response.
With a substantial majority in his seat, Fylde, now potentially contested due to Labour’s national polling lead, Menzies’ resignation poses implications for the Tories.
While Chancellor Rishi Sunak refrained from directly calling for Menzies’ resignation as an MP, he supported the decision to resign from the party.
Labour’s chair, Anneliese Dodds, commended Menzies’ departure from parliament but demanded further accountability from Sunak and the Conservative party.
