Rupert Lowe, former Reform UK MP, is facing accusations of mistreating two female team members, with evidence suggesting behavior amounting to harassment. Jacqueline Perry KC, tasked by Reform to investigate complaints raised in February, found instances of victimization, constant criticisms, and discriminatory actions. A separate bullying probe has been launched by parliamentary officials, and the Met Police is investigating Lowe following allegations of threatening physical violence against the party’s chairman. The Great Yarmouth MP has denied the claims, attributing his suspension to criticizing party leader Nigel Farage.
After the publication of the investigative report, Reform UK announced Lowe’s permanent expulsion from the parliamentary party, with plans to revoke his party membership. Lowe had been suspended earlier in response to allegations of threatening Zia Yusuf, party chairman. The report by Ms. Perry confirmed the validity of complaints from the two women, highlighting Lowe’s failure to address male colleagues’ conduct and address complaints within the office environment. Ms. Perry emphasized Lowe’s duty to prevent unfair and discriminatory treatment of junior staff members and pointed out a potential breach of the Equality Act.
Lowe refuted the claims of bullying, describing them as outright lies and accusing the process of being biased and aimed at damaging his reputation. Despite sitting as an independent following his suspension, Lowe insisted that the allegations emerged only after disciplinary action was taken against the two women. He claimed that Reform initiated the investigation following his public criticism of leader Farage, rejecting formal responses to the complaints. Lowe’s refusal to engage with the investigative process and his public statements on social media have been highlighted by the report as hindrances to addressing the complaints effectively
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