Former communications chief to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Matthew Doyle, has been suspended from the Labour Party following revelations about his past association with a councillor later convicted of serious sex offences. Doyle, who now sits in the House of Lords, confirmed he will no longer take the Labour whip while an investigation is ongoing.
The controversy relates to Doyle being pictured campaigning with Sean Morton, a former councillor in Moray, Scotland. Morton was charged in 2016 with possessing indecent images of children and later admitted to sex offences. The case has drawn strong reactions due to the nature of the crimes and the political links involved.
In a public statement, Doyle apologised for his actions. He described Morton’s crimes as “vile” and said he fully condemns them. Doyle explained that at the time he supported Morton, the councillor had claimed he was innocent, including during early court appearances. Doyle said it was a serious mistake not to step back sooner and admitted it was a clear error of judgment.
Doyle also stressed that after Morton’s conviction, his contact with him was very limited. He said he had not spoken to him in years, apart from brief encounters at events organised by others and one welfare check after concerns were raised. He repeated that his thoughts are with the victims and said he is deeply sorry for his past decisions.
A spokesperson for the Labour Party confirmed that all complaints are assessed under party rules and procedures. Sky News reported that a formal investigation is now underway. The suspension adds to political pressure around party standards and accountability.
The issue comes at a difficult time for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has faced internal and external political challenges in recent days. While Doyle’s case is separate from government policy, it has added to the wider political tensions surrounding Labour’s leadership and public image.
Starmer has continued to stress stability and unity within his party. Speaking to reporters, he said his focus remains on the cost of living, public services, and improving living standards. He also made clear that he intends to lead Labour into the next general election.
Why is Matthew Doyle being investigated? He is under investigation because of his past campaigning support for a councillor who was later convicted of serious sexual offences. Although Doyle says he believed the councillor’s claims of innocence at the time, the Labour Party is reviewing whether his actions breached party standards.
The case has also renewed debate about how political parties handle associations and background checks. As the investigation continues, Labour leaders say due process will be followed and that safeguarding and accountability remain priorities.