Conservative MP William Wragg embroiled in honeytrap sexting scandal
A senior Conservative MP, William Wragg, has found himself at the center of a honeytrap sexting scandal, admitting to leaking personal phone numbers of his colleagues to an individual he met on Grindr. Despite the shocking revelation, Wragg will not face immediate punishment, as senior colleague Jeremy Hunt has publicly backed him.
Wragg, who represents Hazel Grove, expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging that he had been manipulated and had caused harm to others. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt praised Wragg for his apology, describing it as “courageous and fulsome.”
The decision to allow Wragg to retain his seat and party whip has raised eyebrows among MPs, with concerns about triggering a by-election. Wragg has already announced he will not be contesting his seat in the next election, where he currently holds a significant majority.
The scandal comes amidst a wider honeytrap scandal across Westminster, with MPs, staff members, and a political journalist targeted in a suspected spear phishing attack. The Metropolitan police, Leicestershire police, and the parliamentary security service are investigating the matter.
The revelations have reignited fears around espionage and targeted foreign-state attacks on the UK democratic system. In response to alleged cyberattacks by China, the UK imposed sanctions, while concerns about Russian interference have also been raised.
As the investigation unfolds, the political landscape in Westminster remains tense, with calls for increased security measures to protect against such threats. The fallout from the scandal could have far-reaching implications for the Conservative party as they navigate the fallout from recent by-election losses.