Conservative MP apologises for joking about planting ‘a bomb’ in Labour chair’s office

Conservative MP James Gray has apologised for joking about planting “a bomb” in the office of the Labour Party chair Anneliese Dodds.

The North Wiltshire MP made the remark during an exchange in a private WhatsApp group ahead of the Labour Party conference, The Mail on Sunday reportedlast week.

In the WhatsApp group, Conservative MP for High Peak Rob Largan, had asked his colleagues: “Does anybody know where Anneliese Dodds’ Commons office is based? I need to deliver something to her office.”

Mr Gray replied: “A bomb, perhaps?”

Mr Gray has apologised for the comment, stating: “It was a foolish remark,” adding: “I meant no offence and hope none was taken.”
He said the message was deleted almost immediately.

Ms Dodds, also recently appointed as shadow minister for women and equalities: “I think it’s important that he apologises.
“I would say that the broader issue of safety for everyone in politics is very important.

“I think all parliamentarians should be committed to ensuring that everyone can be involved in public life without any fear of intimidation or violence.”

The Labour Party conference, which is in its second day, is taking place at the Brighton Centre and the Hilton Brighton Metropole.
It is located near the Grand Hotel, where five people were killed and 34 injured in an IRA bombing at the Conservative Party conference in 1984.

Mr Gray has faced widespread criticism for his remarks, with some calls for his resignation.