In a stunning turn of events, William Wragg, Member of Parliament (MP) for Hazel Grove, has voluntarily stepped down from the Conservative whip. The decision comes after Wragg admitted to sharing fellow MPs’ personal phone numbers with an individual he encountered on a dating app.

Wragg, who will now sit as an independent MP in the House of Commons, also relinquished his roles on the influential 1922 backbench committee and the Public Administration Committee. His departure from the party has sent shockwaves through political circles, leaving many questioning the implications for both his career and the Conservative Party.

The scandal unfolded when Wragg revealed to The Times that he had fallen victim to what he believes was a Westminster honeytrap plot. According to his account, he engaged in conversations with an unknown person on a dating app, only to be later asked for the phone numbers of his colleagues.

“They had compromising information on me,” Wragg confessed. “They wouldn’t leave me alone. In a moment of weakness, I provided them with some numbers—but not all.”

The revelation has raised concerns about security and privacy within the political sphere. Up to 20 individuals, including MPs, are said to have received unsolicited messages, some of which contained explicit photos. The Metropolitan Police has confirmed that it is actively investigating the reports.

In a statement to the press, Wragg expressed remorse: “I am mortified by my actions, and I deeply regret any harm they may have caused to others. My lapse in judgment has consequences, and I apologise sincerely.”

As the fallout continues, the Conservative Party faces scrutiny over its handling of the situation. With Wragg now sitting as an independent, the delicate balance of power in the House of Commons may be further disrupted.