The Labour Party has suspended 11 of its councillors over their membership of a WhatsApp group that led to a minister being sacked from the frontbench.

It is understood that most of the councillors are part of Tameside Council while two are members of Stockport Council.

The move comes after the party sacked health minister Andrew Gwynne over messages he reportedly posted in the group.

The Mail on Sunday reported that Mr Gwynne made antisemitic comments and “joked” about a pensioner constituent, saying he hoped she died before the next election.

His sacking was followed by the party suspending Burnley MP Oliver Ryan for comments made in the WhatsApp group.

The Labour Party confirmed Oliver Ryan has had the whip removed, meaning he will now sit as an independent MP in the Commons.

On the suspension of the 11 councillors, a party spokesperson said: “As part of our WhatsApp group investigation, a group of councillors have been administratively suspended from the Labour Party.

More on Labour

Related Topics:

“As soon as this group was brought to our attention, a thorough investigation was launched in line with the Labour Party’s rules and procedures and this process is ongoing.

“Swift action will always be taken where individuals are found to have breached the high standards expected of them as Labour Party members.”

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

You can receive breaking news alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News app. You can also follow us on WhatsApp and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.