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MP for South Basildon Will Not Return to Reform After Covid Loan Questions

UNITED KINGDOM, JUL 8 – James McMurdock resigned amid scrutiny over £70,000 in Covid Bounce Back loans taken by his businesses during the pandemic, prompting a party investigation and loss of whip.

  • James McMurdock, the representative for South Basildon and East Thurrock, resigned the Reform UK party whip last week amid an ongoing investigation into allegations concerning Covid-19 loans linked to his business activities.
  • A report released on Saturday raised concerns about two companies linked to McMurdock obtaining £70,000 in loans during the pandemic, prompting questions about whether they qualified for the funds.
  • On Tuesday, McMurdock stated that he had consulted with a legal specialist following the loan allegations and requested the temporary suspension of the party whip as a precaution.
  • He insisted that his business dealings complied fully with all regulations, noting that qualified professionals had reviewed the activities and confirmed absolute compliance.
  • Following his resignation from the Reform UK party whip amid an investigation, McMurdock chose to serve as an independent MP, prioritizing the needs of his constituents, and became the second of five Reform MPs elected in July 2024 to leave the party.
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HuffPost UK broke the news in United Kingdom on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.
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