‘No evidence of wrongdoing found’ after minister’s text exchange

The government’s ethics team has found no evidence of misconduct by a Cabinet Office minister reportedly accused of sending inappropriate messages.

Paymaster General Nick Thomas-Symonds was investigated by the Compliance and Ethics Team (PET) in relation to an allegation involving texts allegedly sent to a female MP. While Mr Thomas-Symonds was reminded of his ministerial duties, sources explained this was standard practice and did not indicate any wrongdoing.

Sir Keir Starmer’s independent standards adviser, Sir Laurie Magnus, agreed with Pet that an investigation was not required after the team reviewed the allegation, as first reported by The Sun on Sunday and the Mail on Sunday.

A Cabinet Office spokesman said: “The Manners and Ethics Team reviewed the exchange of messages with a single individual. No evidence of inappropriate behavior was found and no further action was taken.”

It is understood that the purpose of the meeting between Mr Thomas-Symonds and Pet was to inform him of the matter and that no formal investigation was deemed necessary.

Sir Keir was informed of the facts and accepted Sir Laurie’s advice.

While Andy Burnham looks set to replace the Prime Minister in Downing Street as early as July 20 following his resignation, Mr Thomas-Symonds has remained loyal to Sir Keir amid turmoil at the top of government.

During his time as EU affairs minister, he led post-Brexit negotiations aimed at deepening ties with Brussels, a key pillar of the Labor Government’s agenda.

The Makerfield MP backed Mr Burnham after he emerged as leader to replace Sir Keir and suggested he did not believe a contest would be in the best interests of the country.